The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute have had giant pandas under their care since 1972. Animal care staff and scientists have studied giant panda biology, behavior, breeding, reproduction, and disease. The Zoo team and colleagues have made groundbreaking advances in reproductive science, healthcare, disease treatment, and exponentially increased the understanding of panda behavior, biology, and the mother-cub relationship.
The Zoo entered into its Giant Panda Cooperative Research and Breeding Agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association in December 2000 when giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian arrived. As part of the terms of the agreement, Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their cub returned to China on November 8, 2023.
May 29, 2024, the Zoo announced it will welcome a new pair of giant pandas, Bao Li [BOW-lee] and Qing Bao [ching-BOW], to the Zoo by the end of the year.
