Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s finally happening! Giant Pandas are returning 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 that will arrive in D.C. by the end of 2024!
When are the new Giant Pandas coming to D.C.?
Right now an exact date has not been shared by the National Zoo, only an announcement on their website states that the zoo is “getting ready to welcome two new bears—Bao Li and Qing Bao—by the end of 2024”.
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 two years old and approaching his third birthday on August 4th.
Wing Boa (pronounced ching-BOW) is a female Giant Panda that is also two years old, with her third birthday coming on September 12th.
How to help the Giant Pandas return to 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!