Giant Pandas “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” Will Return to China in September

On August 30, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike announced that the male giant panda “Bi Li” and the female giant panda “Xian Nv,” currently living at Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, will return to China on September 29.

“Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” arrived at Ueno Zoo in February 2011 from the Wolong Giant Panda Reserve in Sichuan, China, through a rental agreement. In 2017, they naturally gave birth to a giant panda named “Xiang Xiang,” who returned to her hometown in Sichuan last year. In 2021, they welcomed twins, “Xiao Xiao” and “Lei Lei.”

Giant Pandas Bi Li And Xian Nv Will Return To China In September

According to information released by Ueno Zoo, both “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” are 19 years old and have developed hypertension and other age-related health issues. Chinese and Japanese experts have maintained communication and collaborated on their treatment, ensuring their appetite and daily activity levels remain normal. To provide better care and treatment for the pandas, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the China Wildlife Conservation Association have decided to return “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” as soon as possible.

The last day for visitors to see the two giant pandas will be September 28. After their return, Ueno Zoo will have only two pandas remaining: “Xiao Xiao” and “Lei Lei.” To express gratitude for the joy “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” have brought to the people of Japan and their contributions to panda conservation research, Ueno Zoo will hold a farewell event in September.