The two juveniles join five other giant pandas in the United States. Only about 1,000 of the highly endangered animals remain in their native habitat, the remote mountain forests in Central China. Throngs of panda enthusiasts waited in long lines to catch a glimpse of the Washington zoo's newest star attractions. The pair arrived in Washington on December 6 aboard a specially outfitted jet. Zookeepers imposed the month-long exile to insure the animals did not show any sign of behavioral or medical problems.
Several pools dot the landscape and can be filled with water or sand for wet or dry baths.
Large live trees allow for climbing and two air-cooled grottoes resembling shallow caves give the pandas a place to cool off during the warmer months. Energized by chilly winter weather that resembles conditions in their natural habitat, the pandas did not disappoint their first visitors on Wednesday. They did what they do best, cavort playfully and eat voraciously. He often initiates the play. They essentially eat everything in sight.