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The Boeing 777 'FedEx Panda Express' recently completed a significant journey by transporting giant pandas from China to Washington, DC. This unique flight underscores the collaboration between FedEx and conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these endangered species. The arrival of the pandas marks an important milestone for wildlife conservation in the United States and fosters awareness about the importance of preserving their habitats.
FedEx is set to receive two pandas for a special chartered flight from China to Washington, DC, on Monday, October 21. Known as the 'Panda Express,' this flight will transport three-year-old pandas Qing Bao (female) and Bao Li (male) on a ten-year loan to the National Zoological Park. These pandas will be traveling a significant distance from their home in Dujiangyan, located in Southwest China. This will not be FedEx's first experience transporting these magnificent creatures.
Inflight meals have been arranged, including corn buns, bamboo shoots, carrots, and water, to ensure the pandas' comfortable journey. A team of animal care specialists and necessary medical supplies will also be onboard to assist the pandas during the flight. Since 1972, the United States and China have engaged in panda diplomacy, initially exemplified during former President Richard Nixon's administration when the first Chinese pandas were sent to the United States to be showcased at the National Zoo.
However, following a decline in diplomatic relations after 2010, China has not renewed panda contracts, leading to many pandas returning home after their lease terms. This was notably observed in 2019 when pandas left the San Diego Zoo and again in 2023 when pandas departed from Washington, DC.
Qing Bao and Bao Li will be the first pandas sent to the U.S. capital in over 24 years. They are loaned to the National Zoo for ten years, with an annual fee of around one million dollars paid to the China Wildlife Conservation Society, which funds conservation efforts throughout China.
One of the pandas, Bao Li, has a family history at the National Zoo. Bao Li's mother, Bao Bao, was born there in 2013 but was sent back to China four years later. Bao Li's grandparents, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, also lived in Washington, DC, for 23 years until their lease expired last year, leading to their return to China.
Preparations at the National Zoo have been underway to welcome these iconic pandas back, as they historically attract thousands of visitors each year. The space has been empty for the past 11 months. Brandie Smith, the director of the Smithsonian National Zoo, expressed her excitement in an interview with the Washington Examiner about the preparations for the pandas’ return:
“These beloved black and white bears are symbols in Washington, DC, and cherished globally. Our team and countless fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.”
“This historic occasion showcases the significant impact of our collaboration with our Chinese colleagues. This partnership has helped increase the panda population, enhanced our shared knowledge of caring for these beloved bears, and provided insights into protecting wild pandas and conserving their natural habitats.”
Qing Bao and Bao Li are scheduled to leave China on Monday evening local time and will arrive in Washington, DC. Upon landing, they will undergo initial health checks and then enter a quarantine period lasting about 30 days before they can be viewed by the public.
For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com
Source: simpleflying
