The Pairi Daiza zoo in Belgium announced on Tuesday that three of its beloved giant pandas—Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei—will return to the Chinese mainland in 2024. The decision marks the end of a successful chapter in the zoo’s collaboration with Chinese conservation efforts.
Tian Bao, born in 2016, made history as the first giant panda to be born in Belgium, captivating visitors with his playful demeanor. His younger siblings, twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, were born in 2019, further strengthening the ties between Belgium and China through wildlife conservation.
The return of the pandas is part of a longstanding arrangement that allows zoos around the world to host giant pandas as ambassadors of China’s commitment to conservation and biodiversity. These programs aim to raise global awareness about the endangered status of giant pandas and support breeding efforts to increase their population.
Zhang Hao, a representative from China’s National Forestry and Grassland Administration, expressed gratitude for the care the pandas received in Belgium. “We appreciate the dedication of the Pairi Daiza team in supporting our conservation initiatives. The pandas have been excellent ambassadors, and we look forward to welcoming them home,” he said.
The pandas’ departure will be a poignant moment for the zoo and its visitors. Eric Domb, founder of Pairi Daiza, commented, “It’s been an honor to host Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei. They have brought joy to millions of visitors and have significantly contributed to raising awareness about giant panda conservation.”
As the pandas prepare for their journey back to China, conservationists hope their return will continue to foster international cooperation in wildlife preservation. The trio will join other pandas in China, contributing to research and breeding programs aimed at ensuring the species’ long-term survival.
Visitors to Pairi Daiza still have time to bid farewell to Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei before they embark on their journey. The zoo plans to host special events celebrating the pandas and their impact on conservation efforts.
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Three giant pandas to come back to China from Belgian zoo in 2024
cgtn.com
