The prolonged absence of pandas at the National Zoo is nearing an end.
After sending back their beloved pandas—Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji—back to China eleven months ago, the zoo is gearing up to welcome a new pair of giant pandas.
These two three-year-old bears, named Bao Li and Qing Bao, have departed from a research facility located in Dujiangyan in southwestern China and are scheduled to make their way to Washington, as confirmed by the China Wildlife Conservation Association.

According to the association’s announcement, the bears will be provided with a special diet for their journey, including corn bread, bamboo, carrots, along with necessary supplies like water and medicine.
The partnership aims to contribute positively to global biodiversity and strengthen the ties between the two nations.

Although the exact arrival date of Bao Li and Qing Bao is not specified, it’s expected that they will undergo a lengthy quarantine and acclimatization phase before they are presented to the public.
These pandas come to Washington under a new ten-year exchange program with China after the previous agreement lapsed last year, creating some apprehension among panda enthusiasts.
Many were concerned that China might be withdrawing its beloved pandas from American zoos due to escalating diplomatic tensions.