In 2012, when the Calgary Zoo released their 20 year plan, Giant Pandas were on the horizon.
Now, 6 years later and after 2 years of construction, Da Mao (10), Er Shun (11) and her 2 year old twin cubs Jia Yueyue & Jia Panpan have arrived and are soon to make their debut to the public!
But today the Fab team was invited through the Moon Gate, down the Bamboo pathway and inside the new Panda Passage for a sneak peek!
With only 1,800 Giant Pandas left in the wild, the Calgary Zoo will care for this family with intentions to teach visitors about this vulnerable and endangered species all whilst contributing $1.4 million yearly back to China and the Chengdhu Research Base to support conservation initiatives such as breeding, habitat protection, reintroduction science and research.
Now for a look at them in their new home!
The new $14.4 million dollar Panda Passage enclosure features two indoor and two outdoor living areas complete with lush landscaping, creative rock structures and waterfalls managing the comfort of the Pandas in all kinds of weather.
Er Shun (mom is shy) so we were thrilled when she came out for some sun!
Behind the scenes, hidden from view, an enormous cooler holds an ample supply of bamboo, as each Panda can consume up to 40kg per day. There is also a nursery should they decide to have cubs while they stay.
The Pandas are now honorary Calgarians and for the next five years will call our city home! Looks like they’ve settled in nicely!
Panda Passage will officially open to the public on Monday May 7th at 12:30pm at the Calgary Zoo.
Mr. Fab andas
Looks like a great place for the Shun Mao family. Congrats on a job well done.