San Diego Zoo Welcomes First Panda Pair to Enter US in 21 Years

Two giant pandas left a conservation center in China and took a chartered flight to the San Diego Zoo to become the first panda pair to enter the US in 21 years. The rare loan of pandas was finalized in February 2024 after Chinese leader Xi Jinping suggested sending pandas to strengthen US-China relations. Veterinary experts from China and the US accompanied the pandas on the flight and Chinese experts will stay for 3 months to help them adjust to their new home. The pandas won't be viewable to the public for several weeks as they acclimate to their new environment under veterinary supervision.