Hold onto your bamboo shoots, America! The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is set to welcome two fluffy diplomats: Bao Li and Qing Bao, giant pandas born in 2021, will jet from China to the U.S. later this year as part of a landmark conservation partnership .
Meet the New Bear Necessities 
Bao Li (male, 2) and Qing Bao (female, 2) aren’t just adorable—they’re *science superstars*. Their relocation aims to boost global research on panda behavior, reproduction, and habitat conservation. Chinese experts have already made three trips to D.C. in 2024 to prep enclosures, menus (no takeout, sadly), and healthcare plans .
Not Their First Bamboo Rodeo 
This isn’t China’s first panda exchange, but it’s a biggie! The China Wildlife Conservation Association calls it a 'win for biodiversity.' Fans worldwide are already betting on Bao Li’s first tree-climbing fail—because let’s face it, panda bloopers are pure gold .
Stay tuned for live updates when these black-and-white icons touchdown!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com