Two new pandas conquer Schönbrunn Zoo in Vienna!

Two new pandas conquer Schönbrunn Zoo in Vienna!

Today is a big day for Schönbrunn Zoo in Vienna: two pandas, the female Lan Yun and the male He Feng, have arrived from China. The two pandas were born in 2020 as part of a panda conservation program and are now ready to explore their new home. The zoo director Dr. Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck personally accompanied the animals from Chengdu to Vienna and ensured that the trip went smoothly. A special team took care of the safe transport process at the airport so that the pandas could arrive at their new home stress-free, reports crown.

Before departure, a celebratory farewell ceremony took place in Chengdu. To the companions of Dr. Hering-Hagenbeck also included Dr. Gerlinde Hillebrand and animal keeper Mag. Renate Haider, who spent a week in the Dujiangyan panda station. During the direct flight, the pandas were provided with fresh bamboo and water and received veterinary care. The animals come from the Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Pandas (CCRCGP), where intensive care and breeding measures are guaranteed.

Cooperation for panda protection

Since 2003, Schönbrunn Zoo has worked closely with the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) to promote the conservation of giant pandas. This cooperation was extended for another ten years in June 2024, underscoring the zoo's commitment to protecting this endangered species. The zoo has a responsibility to spread knowledge and awareness about the survival of pandas and to inform the public about these majestic animals the Zoo Vienna website.

Lan Yun and He Feng are currently in a quarantine and adjustment phase. They are not expected to be visible to visitors until mid-May. An official ceremony to introduce the pandas and reopen the panda enclosure is also planned. A trusted caretaker from China will stay in Vienna for the time being to help the pandas get used to it and to optimally support their needs, reports ORF Vienna.