Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s finally happening! Giant Pandas have returned to D.C.’s National Zoo as part of an over 50-year-old conservation partnership with the China Wildlife Conversation Association is continuing into its next chapter – Bao Li and Qing Bao, two new bears arrived in D.C. on October 15th.
When will we be able to see D.C.’s new Giant Pandas?
The National Zoo just announced that the public debut of the two pandas will be on January 24th on their website.
They also stated that zoo members will be able to visit them ahead of time, seeing Bao Li and Qing Boa from January 10th to the 19th in a special preview.
How do I become a Zoo Member?
To become a Zoo Member you can sign up for any of the several tiered membership plans on the National Zoo’s website, just opt for the plan that is the best fit for you!
Each membership plan, which ranges from $74 for a standard membership for one adult to $10,000 for a ‘Ambassador Council’ membership, comes with unique offerings like discounts, perks inside the park, and access to special events and promotions; just like early access to the new Giant Panda exhibit before it opens to the public!
When is the Panda Cam getting turned back on?
The National Zoo stated in the FAQ’s section of the ‘Panda Page’ that the Panda Cam will not be turned on until after the two Giant Panda’s have made their first formal public debut on January 24th.
What do we know about the new Giant Pandas?
The new Giant Pandas are Bao Li and Qing Boa.
Boa Li (pronounced BOW-lee) is a male Giant Panda who is three years old and his next birthday is August 4th.
Wing Boa (pronounced ching-BOW) is a female Giant Panda that is also three years old, with her birthday having just passed on September 12th.
How you can help the Giant Pandas in D.C.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo shared on its website:
Our goal is to raise $25 million to secure a future for giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and protect this magnificent bear species and the mountain forest habitats it calls home. While federal resources cover the Zoo’s essential needs for all the animals we care for, the remainder of our operating budget — including the giant panda conservation program — comes from the support of Zoo visitors, members and donors.
Washingtonians who want to participate in the fundraising to support the pandas can do so on the National Zoo’s dedicated Panda Page!