Panda Caretakers in the Heart of the Qinling Mountains: Protecting “Black-and-White Spirits” with Love

In the heart of the Qinling Mountains, in Foping County, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, a group of adorable Qinling giant pandas live as if they were “black-and-white spirits.” Behind these “spirits,” however, is a group of silent guardians who have dedicated themselves to caring for these precious creatures. These caretakers have spent years with the pandas, writing warm stories of love and responsibility. They are the giant panda caretakers.

Recently, a reporter visited the Qinling Giant Panda Foping Rescue and Breeding Research Base in Foping County to learn about the “pre-New Year’s workday” of a panda caretaker. Wang Pengyue, known as a “panda dad,” was busy cleaning the panda enclosures and clearing fallen leaves, ensuring that the pandas had a comfortable living environment.

Panda Caretakers In The Heart Of The Qinling Mountains 1

Wang explained that winter temperatures can drop significantly, and during the care process, it is crucial to monitor the pandas’ health and activity levels. Data such as their physical condition, amount of movement, and behavior are closely observed. Based on these observations, adjustments are made to their diet and other care needs, including adding supplementary food to ensure the pandas’ nutritional needs are met.

To better understand the pandas, Wang meticulously tracks their daily routines, activity paths, food consumption, and even their waste output. He keeps careful records and reports on these observations regularly. Sometimes, he even has to get up in the middle of the night to monitor the pandas.

“Although the work is busy and tiring, when I see the pandas eating bamboo, playing, climbing rocks, and running up trees, I feel a great sense of accomplishment,” Wang said. The pandas are familiar with his voice. For example, when they are playing on the mountain, if he whistles or calls out, the pandas will return shortly after. If he hasn’t been around for a while, the pandas will even “baa” as a greeting. Over time, a deep bond of “friendship” has formed between them.

Panda Caretakers In The Heart Of The Qinling Mountains 2

“Seeing the Qinling giant pandas grow up healthy gives me the feeling that I am doing a noble job. It also strengthens my confidence and courage. In the new year, I will continue to take care of them with all my heart, protecting them with love,” Wang proudly stated.

With the Lunar New Year approaching, the common wish of every caretaker at the Qinling Giant Panda Foping Rescue and Breeding Research Base is that each panda remains healthy and happy. Like Wang Pengyue, there are many other “panda dads” and “panda moms” at the base. They brave the scorching summer heat and the cold winter, preparing bamboo, mixing supplementary food, and tirelessly weaving a “safety net” for the comfortable lives of the Qinling giant pandas every day.