Chiang Mai Zoo Prepares to Welcome Two New Pandas from China
The arrival of the pandas marks a new chapter in Thai-Chinese relations and zoo attractions.
Chiang Mai Zoo is set to receive two giant pandas from China later this year, as announced by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China on May 28.
The preparation for this significant addition has prompted a team from the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPO) to assess and inspect the designated areas within the zoo for the pandas' new habitat and exhibition spaces.
Assoc Prof Dr Jessada Yonawanik, chairman of the ZPO, confirmed on Sunday that the construction of these facilities is expected to cost approximately 110 million baht.
Planning and design processes have already commenced to ensure that the new enclosures are spacious and conducive to the well-being and natural behaviors of the pandas.
Zoo director Wutthichai Muangman stated that the facility management would adhere to governmental directives, as well as guidelines from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the ZPO.
This initiative aims to improve upon the experience provided during the tenure of previous resident pandas, Xuang Xuang and Lin Hui, who attracted more than seven million visitors during their stay.
The pair produced a female cub named Lin Bing in 2009, who was later returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China in 2013 under a mutual agreement.
Xuang Xuang passed away in 2019 at the age of 19, while Lin Hui died in 2023 at the age of 21.
The arrival of the new pandas represents a significant development for Chiang Mai Zoo, which has previously enjoyed the presence of giant pandas and their impact on tourism and conservation awareness.
The preparation for this significant addition has prompted a team from the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPO) to assess and inspect the designated areas within the zoo for the pandas' new habitat and exhibition spaces.
Assoc Prof Dr Jessada Yonawanik, chairman of the ZPO, confirmed on Sunday that the construction of these facilities is expected to cost approximately 110 million baht.
Planning and design processes have already commenced to ensure that the new enclosures are spacious and conducive to the well-being and natural behaviors of the pandas.
Zoo director Wutthichai Muangman stated that the facility management would adhere to governmental directives, as well as guidelines from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the ZPO.
This initiative aims to improve upon the experience provided during the tenure of previous resident pandas, Xuang Xuang and Lin Hui, who attracted more than seven million visitors during their stay.
The pair produced a female cub named Lin Bing in 2009, who was later returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China in 2013 under a mutual agreement.
Xuang Xuang passed away in 2019 at the age of 19, while Lin Hui died in 2023 at the age of 21.
The arrival of the new pandas represents a significant development for Chiang Mai Zoo, which has previously enjoyed the presence of giant pandas and their impact on tourism and conservation awareness.
