Washington, D.C. — The Smithsonian’s National Zoo turned the spotlight on its beloved giant panda, Qing Bao, as the animal celebrated her fifth birthday on Saturday. The zoo organized a 1970s‑inspired party, featuring a groovy van‑shaped cake made from frozen, diluted grape, plum, apple and carrot juice, topped with a bold “5” to mark the milestone.
“Qing Bao has really come into her personality over the past year,” said giant panda keeper Mariel Lally during the festivities. “Visitors may think of her as being a little bit more reserved and regimented compared to Bao Li, but she is actually quite goofy and quirky. She is a very smart panda and enjoys difficult enrichment, especially hanging feeder toys! Although she may not be as social as Bao Li, she will wait for all of her keepers to say ‘goodnight’ before shifting inside in the evening.”
Family members and conservation context
Qing Bao shares the exhibit with Bao Li, a five‑year‑old male giant panda who arrived at the zoo alongside her in January 2025. The pair have become ambassadors for the partnership between the Smithsonian and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA), highlighting ongoing efforts to protect the species in the wild.
Giant pandas now survive only in six mountainous regions across a few Chinese provinces. Historically, they roamed lowland forests, but extensive farming, deforestation and other development have forced them into higher elevations. Their iconic black‑and‑white appearance has turned them into a global symbol of vulnerable wildlife.
Historical ties and future hopes
The Smithsonian’s panda program traces its roots back to 1972, when the first two giant pandas were sent from China to the United States. That historic exchange paved the way for decades of scientific collaboration, breeding successes, and public education about habitat preservation.
Zoo officials hope that Qing Bao’s birthday celebration will inspire visitors to support conservation initiatives both at home and abroad. “Every birthday is a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much work remains,” Lally added. “When families come to see Qing Bao and Bao Li, they leave with a deeper appreciation for the stewardship of God‑given creation and the responsibility we all share to protect it.”
The National Zoo continues to offer a range of enrichment activities for its pandas, including puzzle feeders and climbing structures, designed to mimic natural foraging behaviors. These programs not only keep the animals healthy and engaged but also provide valuable data for researchers studying panda behavior and habitat needs.
Visitors are encouraged to attend upcoming educational talks and behind‑the‑scenes tours that delve into the science of panda conservation. As the zoo looks ahead, plans are underway to expand the panda habitat and enhance breeding programs, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sight of these gentle giants.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
