Panda-monium Returns To The San Diego Zoo With Pair's Public Debut

SAN DIEGO, CA — Panda-monium is expected to return to the San Diego Zoo Thursday with the public debut of a pair of giant pandas — the first pandas to enter the U.S. in 21 years.

The zoo will open its Panda Ridge exhibit at noon Thursday, unveiling Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the public. The zoo celebrated the occasion during an official opening ceremony at 9 a.m. with government officials and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance representatives.

Ahead of the pair's public debut, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared Thursday as California Panda Day.

"The bear has long held pride of place in California as a symbol of our state's spirit and strength, from our state flag and seal to its enduring significance for Native American tribes across the state," the proclamation states. "This week, California is proud to celebrate another iconic bear as a pair of giant pandas make their public debut at the San Diego Zoo."

The San Diego Zoo was the first zoo in the U.S. to have a cooperative panda conservation program.

China recalled almost all of its pandas who were on loan to zoos in the U.S. around five years ago after relations between the two countries soured. Cooperation between China and the U.S. has led to the possibility of pandas returning to zoos, including the San Diego Zoo.

That possibility has become a reality.

"Giant pandas are beloved around the world and their conservation story is an inspiring example of strong partnerships and innovative strategies to protect the world’s natural heritage," the governor's proclamation states. "As the San Diego Zoo welcomes visitors to Panda Ridge this week, I encourage Californians to take this unique opportunity to appreciate one of the most iconic wildlife species and recognize the important partnerships at work to help them thrive for generations to come."

Yun Chuan, a 5-year-old male, is identifiable by his long, slightly pointed nose.

He was connected to the San Diego Zoo prior to his arrival. In 2007, his mother, Zhen Zhen, was the fourth cub born at the zoo. His name is a nod to his grandmother, Bai Yun, who lived at the zoo for 23 years.

Xin Bao, a 4-year-old female, is best recognized by her round face and big, fluffy ears. Her name means "precious treasure of prosperity and abundance."

The duo arrived safely in San Diego from China on June 27.

Since then, they have acclimated to their home in the newly reimagined Panda Ridge. The space is four times larger than the zoo's previous panda habitat and is inspired by geological formations in China, according to the zoo. The habitat features new shade trees for climbing, a diverse array of plants, and rolling hillsides that allow Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to navigate and explore vertically.

"We are delighted to introduce Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to our San Diego Zoo community," said Paul Baribault, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. "Our newest residents will bring joy to our visitors and symbolize the enduring spirit of international conservation efforts. Together with our partners, we continue to make significant strides in ensuring a hopeful future for this iconic species."

The San Diego Zoo is offering three ways for visitors to see the pandas. Visitors can either obtain a complimentary giant panda timed ticket or join the standby line on the day of their visit. Additionally, visitors can make reservations for a 60-minute Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour.

Also see:

• Pandas To Make Public Debut Aug. 8 At San Diego Zoo
• Pandas Settle Into New Home At San Diego Zoo
• Pandas Arrive At San Diego Zoo
• Meet The New Pandas Coming To The San Diego Zoo
• Giant Pandas Could Soon Return To San Diego Zoo

City News Service contributed to this report.