New Giant Pandas Arrive at Smithsonian's National Zoo

Bao Li and Qing Bao begin a 10-year stay in Washington, D.C., as part of a renewed panda diplomacy agreement between China and the U.S.

Bao Li and Qing Bao, two 3-year-old giant pandas, have arrived at the Smithsonian's National Zoo after a long journey from China.
The pandas will be quarantined for at least 30 days before making their public debut on January 24, 2025.
Their arrival marks the continuation of a 50-year panda conservation and cultural exchange program between the U.S. and China.
Concerns have been raised about aggressive breeding practices in panda conservation programs, though the National Zoo emphasizes its focus on care and research.
The pandas' arrival is part of a 10-year agreement, with the zoo paying $1 million annually to support conservation efforts in China.