“UK’s Edinburgh Zoo Giant Pandas Return to China After Loan.”
The United Kingdom’s only pair of giant pandas from Edinburgh Zoo are departing for China, concluding their 12-year loan. Despite preparations made by the zoo over the years, the pandas, Yang Guang and Tian Tian, aged 20, are set to return to Sichuan province. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has meticulously organized their journey, ensuring compliance with health regulations, including quarantine and regular vet checks. Custom-built metal crates, equipped with essentials and space, have been crafted for their transport by the zoo’s blacksmith, Rab Clark.
A hired low-loader transporter will ferry the pandas from the zoo to Edinburgh Airport, the exact departure time kept undisclosed to avoid disruptions. While some oppose the concept of pandas living in captivity, expressing preference for their natural habitat in China, the zoo proceeds with arrangements for their flight on a specially chartered China Southern plane. The flight will have minimal passengers, with a select team overseeing the pandas’ well-being, including health checks and provision of food and water.
During the flight, a handover will occur between the RZSS and Chinese keepers, marking the transfer of responsibility. The zookeepers have been gradually acclimating the pandas to earlier mornings in preparation for departure. Once at the airport, customs checks will be carried out before the pandas are secured onto the plane, where they’ll be monitored closely by the RZSS vet. Despite potential challenges due to the unfamiliar environment, the vet plans to ensure the pandas’ comfort and health.
Upon arrival in Chengdu, Sichuan province, the pandas will undergo quarantine before being relocated to another panda center. The RZSS intends to visit them next year to ensure their well-being. Despite the emotional attachment to the pandas, the zoo remains committed to their care and hopes for their continued welfare as China’s national treasure.
