by Xinhua writer Tan Jingjing
SAN DIEGO, the United States, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) — Panda enthusiasts in the United States were given a glimmer of hope as Chinese and U.S. wildlife conservation organizations recently signed a new agreement on giant panda conservation.
The China Wildlife Conservation Association, the U.S. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA), and Madrid Zoo Aquarium of Spain joined hands to collaborate on the conservation of giant pandas, aiming to enhance protection efforts for the species on a global scale.
Dr. Megan Owen, vice president of conservation science at SDZWA, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue collaborative conservation efforts for the future of giant pandas. She highlighted the importance of aligning conservation plans with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the overall benefit of the pandas.
Excitement spread rapidly among panda lovers in the United States, with many eager to see giant pandas return. Visitors at the San Diego Zoo reacted with enthusiasm, describing the news as “thrilling,” “fantastic,” and “amazing.”
Lillian Hallberg, a visitor from Boston, was overjoyed upon receiving an email from San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance announcing the return of giant pandas. She described the alliance between the U.S. and China as wonderful.
Both Lillian and her husband George Hallberg are avid panda enthusiasts who have frequented the San Diego Zoo and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. to see the giant pandas during their stay.
George Hallberg explained the universal appeal of pandas, noting their endearing appearance and playful behavior that bring joy to people worldwide. Lillian Hallberg emphasized the importance of collaborative conservation efforts between the U.S. and China, underscoring the success of such initiatives.
Despite the Hallberg family’s enthusiasm, many Americans share the same eagerness to welcome giant pandas back to U.S. soil. Claudia Rodriguez, a San Diego resident, fondly remembers her interactions with the last two giant pandas, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu, at the San Diego Zoo before they returned to China in 2019.
Pandas have historically symbolized the friendship between China and the U.S., dating back to 1972 when two giant pandas were gifted to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo following President Richard Nixon’s visit to China.
SDZWA’s longstanding conservation partnership with Chinese research collaborators has significantly advanced the understanding of giant panda biology, care, and well-being. The ongoing construction of a giant panda habitat at the San Diego Zoo indicates preparations for the anticipated arrival of the pandas.
Andrew James, senior public relations representative at SDZWA, emphasized the organization’s commitment to conserving the species and fostering connections with visitors to support their conservation efforts. He praised the successful collaboration with partners in China and other zoological facilities.
Jeff He, a visitor from Los Angeles, expressed hopes for increased exchanges and cooperation between the U.S. and China beyond giant panda conservation. He recognized pandas as goodwill ambassadors for China and looked forward to the joy and hope their return would bring.
