Pandas at the National Zoo: An Update on the Beloved Animals

A Look into the Lives of the Pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo

The Smithsonian's National Zoo is home to two giant pandas, Bei Bei and Bao Bao. These beloved animals have captured the hearts of visitors from around the world and have become symbols of the zoo's commitment to conservation. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the lives of these amazing pandas and provide an update on their well-being.

Bei Bei's Journey

Bei Bei was born at the National Zoo on August 22, 2015. He is the son of Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, two giant pandas that have been on loan from China since 2000. Bei Bei is a playful and curious cub who loves to explore his surroundings. He is also a very vocal panda, and his squeals and chirps can often be heard throughout the zoo.

In 2019, Bei Bei was sent to China to join a breeding program. He was successfully introduced to a female panda named Ya Ya, and the two animals mated several times. Unfortunately, Ya Ya did not become pregnant, and Bei Bei was returned to the National Zoo in 2020.

Bao Bao's Story

Bao Bao was born at the National Zoo on August 23, 2013. She is the daughter of Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, and she is Bei Bei's older sister. Bao Bao is a sweet and gentle panda who loves to play with her toys and take naps in the sun. She is also a very intelligent panda, and she has learned to recognize her name and respond to commands.

In 2017, Bao Bao was sent to China to join a breeding program. She was successfully introduced to a male panda named Yuan Zai, and the two animals mated several times. Bao Bao became pregnant, and she gave birth to a cub named Xiao Qi Ji in 2019.

The Future of the Pandas at the National Zoo

The National Zoo is committed to the conservation of giant pandas. The zoo's panda program has been very successful, and the zoo has played a major role in the recovery of this endangered species. The zoo is working to ensure that Bei Bei and Bao Bao continue to thrive, and the zoo is hopeful that they will both produce cubs in the future.

Conclusion

The giant pandas at the National Zoo are beloved animals that have captured the hearts of visitors from around the world. The zoo is committed to the conservation of giant pandas, and the zoo is working to ensure that these amazing animals continue to thrive.