Photo: Smithsonian’s National Zoo
According to astatementon the Smithsonian National Zoo’s website, Bei Bei’s transfer comes as part of the Zoo’s cooperative agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association, which states that all cubs born at the Zoo must move to China when they turn 4.
In order to prepare Bei Bei for the trip, panda keepers will be acclimating him to walking through a travel crate. Once adjusted, they will acclimate him to spending short periods of time in it with the door closed. He will be offered treats while he is inside.
Smithsonian’s National Zoo
FedEx also transported Bei Bei’s older brother Tai Shan to China in 2010, older sister Bao Bao to China in 2017 and their parents, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, to the United States in 2000, the Zoo added.
Bei Bei will be continuously monitored during the trip and will travel with a supply of treats such as bamboo, apples, pears, carrots, cooked sweet potatoes, biscuits and water.
Beginning last week and ending Monday, Nov. 18, the Zoo is holding an online and on-site series of “Bye Bye, Bei Bei” celebratory events in honor of the beloved panda. Details can be found on the Zoo’s website.
Bei Bei.Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Obama and Peng landed on the name Bei Bei, which means “precious, treasure” in Mandarin Chinese, according to Zoo director Dennis Kelly.
Andy Wong-Pool/Getty
At the event, Mrs. Obama shared her family’s love for the zoo, mentioning that daughter Malia had done several internships at the facility. Through an interpreter, Ms. Peng also spoke of her love for pandas, remarking on the number of panda images plastered around the national capital and her disappointment over missingBei Bei’s birthon the panda cam.
“The giant panda exemplifies the common bond between China and the United States,” Ms. Peng said. “We do need more bonds to bring the people of our two countries ever more close and I think the giant panda is one of those bonds we can celebrate to achieve that goal.”
source: people.com
