The animals will come from the China Research and Conservation Center for the Giant Panda located in Wolong, Sichuan Province. Successful private fundraising efforts have made this acquisition possible. No federal funds have been used to bring the giant pandas to the National Zoo. This funding will also be directed toward support for scientific research and professional training of reserve personnel in China to help promote the long-term conservation of the species in the wild.
Giant pandas are an endangered species.
Scientists estimate that only about 1,000 remain in the mountain forests of central China. Breeding facilities and zoos in China hold approximately 120 giant pandas. There are about 20 giant pandas living in zoos outside of China. We all owe a debt of gratitude to the corporate sponsors and private donors who are making this entire panda conservation effort at the National Zoo possible. The agreement specifies the research and conservation projects that the Zoo will begin upon arrival of the pandas.