BEIJING, April 24 (Xinhua) -- China will send a new giant panda couple to Spain next week. The previous pair returned nearly two months ago after living in Spain for more than a decade.
The China Wildlife Conservation Association said Wednesday that giant pandas Jin Xi and Zhu Yu will embark on their journey on April 29 from the southwestern Chinese city of Chengdu in Sichuan Province. They will start their 10-year residency at a zoo in Spain's capital, Madrid.
Currently, the two giant pandas are in good health and are undergoing quarantine procedures, according to the association.
The couple come from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Jin Xi, the male, was born on Sept. 1, 2020, while the female, Zhu Yu, was born on Oct. 25, 2020.
The base has prepared special air transport cages to ensure the giant pandas can move, feed and rest freely, while a sufficient amount of fresh Sichuan local bamboo and bamboo shoots will be available for them to eat. The breeders of these giant pandas and veterinarians will also be on the flight to Spain.
To welcome these giant pandas, Madrid Zoo Aquarium adopted the advice of Chinese experts in upgrading its giant panda enclosure, including rebuilding the breeding room and adding game facilities, such as climbing frames and logs.
Bing Xing and Hua Zui Ba, two other giant pandas sent to Spain in September 2007, flew back to Chengdu last month, along with three Spain-born cubs. The Spanish zoo hosted a farewell party for this beloved giant panda family before their return to China.
China and Spain have for several years worked together to promote giant panda protection, with six cubs successfully born and bred thanks to these joint efforts. Various cultural activities have also been held to raise giant panda awareness, including the giant panda culture week. ■
