Giant Pandas Qing Bao, Bao Li Debut at National Zoo

The Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C., welcomed two new giant pandas, Qing Bao and Bao Li, on January 24, marking the end of a year without pandas following the return of the previous trio to China. The pandas, aged three, arrived from Chengdu and are part of China's 'panda diplomacy' program, which has seen numerous pandas exchanged over the decades. To celebrate their debut, the zoo is hosting a 'District of Panda Party' for two weeks, featuring various events, including cultural activities and a Lunar New Year celebration. One panda enthusiast, Frances Nguyen, shared how the pandas have profoundly impacted her life, leading to friendships and even her marriage. Additionally, Metro is commemorating the event with a limited-edition SmarTrip card featuring the new pandas, available at select stations. The return of giant pandas to the zoo reinforces its long-standing conservation efforts, contributing to the species' shift from 'endangered' to 'vulnerable' status.