Farewell to Beloved Giant Pandas: Smithsonian National Zoo's

In a bittersweet turn of events, the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., has announced that its three giant pandas, Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their youngest cub, 3-year-old Xiao Qi Ji, will soon be leaving for China. Originally, their departure was not expected so soon, but the panda family will board a plane in mid-November to begin their journey to the China Wildlife Conservation Association. The exact date of their departure remains undisclosed due to security concerns.

The zookeepers, who have nurtured and cared for these pandas, are preparing to bid an emotional farewell. The pandas have been an integral part of the National Zoo's family, and their absence will be keenly felt. The keepers spend countless hours with these adorable creatures, sharing their daily lives, and creating strong bonds.

Assistant Curator of Giant Pandas, Laurie Thompson, expressed the deep connection they have with the pandas, saying, "It's gonna be hard for all of the keepers that work with them on a day-to-day basis because we spend so much time with the pandas. Holidays, and you know, every day we're here. And so, it's, it's a little bit heartbreaking to not have them here."

The pandas' departure marks the conclusion of a research exchange program between the U.S. and China. Initially, a 10-year agreement was made for Mei Xiang and Tian Tian to reside at the National Zoo, which was extended three times. However, the agreement between the Smithsonian and the China Wildlife Conservation Association is set to expire in December.

Mei Xiang and Tian Tian arrived at the National Zoo in December 2000, attracting immense attention. They are now 25 and 26 years old, surpassing the age of the zoo's previous female giant panda, Ling-Ling. Mei Xiang and Tian Tian revitalized the National Zoo's panda program by giving birth to four surviving cubs, starting with Tai Shan in 2005.

The preparation for their 19-hour journey to China is underway, with FedEx reserving a plane exclusively for their travel. Their destination, the China Wildlife Conservation Association, is a panda haven with a large population of giant pandas.

Zoo officials have encouraged those wishing to see the pandas one last time to plan their visit as soon as possible. The National Zoo had previously organized "Panda Palooza: A Giant Farewell" last month to celebrate these beloved pandas. The departure of these adorable pandas marks the end of an era at the National Zoo, leaving a legacy of joy and fond memories for all who had the pleasure of watching them grow.

Source: NBC4

Photo: Getty Images


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