Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, the first pandas from China to arrive in the U.S. in 21 years, have settled into their new home at the San Diego Zoo. The much-anticipated arrival of these two giant pandas marks a significant milestone in international conservation efforts. The pandas are set to make their public debut on Thursday, August 8, as the San Diego Zoo announced on Friday.
A New Home in Panda Ridge
Since their arrival, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao have been exploring and adjusting to their home in the newly reimagined Panda Ridge. This innovative space is four times larger than the zoo’s previous panda habitat and is designed to emulate the natural landscapes of China, including mountains, canyons, and cliffs. The enclosure also features new shade trees for climbing, various plants, and rolling hillsides that encourage vertical navigation and exploration.
Paul Baribault, President and CEO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, expressed his excitement about the new residents. In a statement on Friday, he said, “We are delighted to introduce Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to our San Diego Zoo community. We hope they will bring joy to our visitors and symbolize the enduring spirit of international conservation efforts.”
Experiencing the Pandas at San Diego Zoo
To accommodate the high interest in the pandas, the San Diego Zoo offers three ways for guests to experience Yun Chuan and Xin Bao:
- Giant Panda Timed Tickets: Visitors can obtain a complimentary timed ticket upon arrival at the zoo. By scanning the ticket QR code posted on signs throughout the zoo, guests can select an available time slot to visit Panda Ridge and see the pandas at the designated time.
- Standby Line: Alternatively, guests can join the standby line outside the panda enclosure from 9:30 a.m. until the pandas are off habitat or the zoo closes, whichever comes first. This option allows for more spontaneous viewing opportunities.
- Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour: For a more exclusive experience, the zoo offers a special 60-minute morning tour that includes an exclusive viewing of the pandas. This tour requires reservations and incurs an additional cost beyond regular admission. Reservations can be made in advance online or by calling the zoo at (619) 718-3000.
The arrival of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao is not only a thrilling addition to the San Diego Zoo but also a testament to the success of global conservation partnerships. Visitors are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures and learn more about their conservation journey.