Jin Xi and Zhu Yu, two giant pandas from Chengdu, China, touched down in Madrid on Monday, kicking off a decade-long stay aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation ties between China and Spain. The fluffy envoys, aged nearly four, flew via charter flight from Sichuan Province and were greeted by Spanish officials and zoo staff before settling into their upgraded enclosure at Madrid Zoo Aquarium. 🌍✈️
Quarantine & Cultural Hype
After a month-long quarantine, the pandas could debut in late May. The zoo has prepped fresh bamboo dinners and revamped their habitat for maximum comfort. Chinese conservation experts will stay in Madrid for three months to ensure a smooth transition. 🎋🧑🔬
From China With Love
This panda exchange follows a 2007 bilateral agreement that’s already produced six cubs in Spain. Earlier this year, five pandas returned to China, leaving bittersweet memories for zookeepers. “We’re excited to start this new chapter,” said Maria Delclaux, the zoo’s panda enclosure lead. 🐾❤️
