The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute have had giant pandas under their care since 1972. Animal care staff and scientists have studied giant panda biology, behavior, breeding, reproduction, and disease. The Zoo team and colleagues have made groundbreaking advances in reproductive science, healthcare, disease treatment, and exponentially increased the understanding of panda behavior, biology, and the mother-cub relationship.
As a part of the Giant Panda Cooperative Research and Breeding Agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association, the Zoo welcomed a new pair of giant pandas, Bao Li [BOW-lee] and Qing Bao [ching-BOW], on October 15, 2024. Per standard procedure, the pandas will be quarantined in the panda house for a minimum of 30 days upon arrival. After quarantine, the bears will have a few more weeks to settle into their new habitat. The pandas will debut on January 24, 2025, with a member preview January 10-19, 2024. Read more on the Zoo's website.
