Meet Bao Li and Qing Bao–the National Zoo’s Returning Pandas
After a panda-less year in D.C., the National Zoo is welcoming back two beloved pandas–Bao Li and Qing Bao. These pandas have captured the hearts of visitors for years with their playful antics and adorable faces. Let’s take a closer look at these pandas and their return to the zoo.
About Bao Li
Bao Li is a male giant panda who was born on August 23, 2013 in China. He arrived at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. in 2015 as part of a cooperative breeding agreement between China and the United States. Bao Li is known for his energetic personality and love of climbing trees. Visitors to the zoo can often see him playing with enrichment toys or munching on bamboo.
About Qing Bao
Qing Bao is a female giant panda who was born on July 9, 2015 in China. She joined Bao Li at the National Zoo in 2017. Qing Bao is known for her gentle nature and close bond with Bao Li. Visitors to the zoo can watch the two pandas interact and play together, showcasing their natural behaviors.
Their Return to the National Zoo
After a year without pandas at the National Zoo due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the return of Bao Li and Qing Bao has been highly anticipated. Visitors can once again experience the joy of watching these iconic animals and learn about conservation efforts to protect their species in the wild. The pandas’ presence at the zoo also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving habitat for endangered species like giant pandas.
Conclusion
The return of Bao Li and Qing Bao to the National Zoo marks a special moment for visitors and staff alike. These pandas serve as ambassadors for their species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect giant pandas in the wild. As visitors watch Bao Li and Qing Bao play and explore their habitat, they can gain a greater appreciation for these amazing animals and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
FAQs
Q: Are Bao Li and Qing Bao related?
A: No, Bao Li and Qing Bao are not related. They were both born in China and came to the National Zoo as part of a cooperative breeding agreement.
Q: What do Bao Li and Qing Bao eat?
A: Giant pandas primarily eat bamboo, but they may also consume fruits, vegetables, and specially formulated panda biscuits.
Q: How long do giant pandas typically live?
A: In the wild, giant pandas have a lifespan of 20-30 years. In captivity, they can live into their 30s or even 40s.
