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Giant Pandas Make a Historic Debut at San Diego Zoo’s New Panda Ridge

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San Diego, CA – Excitement filled the air at the San Diego Zoo this morning as two giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, captured the hearts of animal lovers during their public debut, marking a monumental day not only for the zoo but for international wildlife conservation. This historic event welcomed the opening of Panda Ridge, a lush, expansive new home for the pandas, designed to mimic their natural habitats in China.

From left to right: Ceremony attendee, Toni G. Atkins, California state senator; Gavin Newsom, governor of California; His Excellency Xie Feng, Chinese ambassador to the United States; Paul Baribault, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance; Si Ping, deputy secretary general of China Wildlife Conservation Association; and Todd Gloria, mayor of San Diego at Panda Ridge ribbon ceremony at San Diego Zoo. Image Credit: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

A Ceremony of Friendship and Conservation

The opening celebration of Panda Ridge was a congregation of splendor and international unity, attended by a host of dignitaries including California Governor Gavin Newsom, Chinese ambassador to the U.S., His Excellency Xie Feng, California State Senator Toni G. Atkins, and other leaders from both the United States and China. The event flourished under the theme of continued conservation efforts and bilateral cooperation, underscored by a mesmerizing Chinese musical performance and the unveiling of an inspiring new artwork by Shepard Fairey, celebrating the pandas’ arrival.

Meet Yun Chuan and Xin Bao: Giant Pandas

The stars of the day, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, delighted their audience with their playful antics and unique characteristics. Yun Chuan, a charming five-year-old with a pointed nose reminiscent of his mother, Zhen Zhen – a former resident of the same zoo, and Xin Bao, a year younger, distinguished by her round face and fluffy ears, are set to become the new ambassadors of giant panda conservation.

An Abode Reflecting the Wild

Their new residence, Panda Ridge, is a marvel of zoo architecture, offering these majestic creatures four times the space of their previous enclosure. Drawing inspiration from the natural scenery of the Sichuan, Gansu, and Shaanxi provinces, the habitat provides an ideal environment for the pandas to thrive and exhibit their natural behaviors, amidst water features and a rich variety of plants — a true testament to the zoo’s commitment to authenticity and conservation.

Conservation and Connection

This event also celebrated a 30-year-long conservation partnership between the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and the China Wildlife Conservation Association. Echoing the sentiments of historical collaboration, the exchange promises ongoing efforts towards the conservation of these beloved creatures, which have seen their IUCN status improve from Endangered to Vulnerable since 2016. These efforts are a beacon of hope, demonstrating what can be achieved through international cooperation and dedicated conservation efforts.

Experience the Magic

Starting today, visitors to the zoo can view Yun Chuan and Xin Bao by obtaining a Giant Panda Timed Ticket, joining a standby line, or booking an exclusive Early Morning with Pandas walking tour. These interactions are designed not only to enchant and educate visitors but also to inspire a deeper understanding and commitment to wildlife conservation.

Acknowledgements and Future Aspirations

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance extends its deepest gratitude to its donors, especially Kenneth C. Griffin and Peng Zhao, whose contributions have been pivotal in bringing Panda Ridge to fruition. As we continue to marvel at the beauty and significance of these pandas, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect these magnificent animals and the natural world they inhabit.

This event marks not just a celebratory opening of a new habitat but a renewal of commitments and a strengthening of bonds between nations dedicated to the preservation of one of the world’s most beloved animals. Join us at the San Diego Zoo to witness the wonder of pandas and be part of a journey towards a sustainable future. For more information, please visit San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance – Giant Pandas.

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Source: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/giant-pandas

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/giant-pandas-make-public-debut-during-historic-day-at-san-diego-zoo-302218521.html

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