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National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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Flirting Like a Panda: Spring Sparks for Bao Li and Qing Bao at the National Zoo

A sure sign of spring is when giant pandas show interest in one another. Watch how Bao Li and Qing Bao "flirt" in this update!

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See How the Animals Enjoyed a Snowy Week at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

While the Zoo was closed, staff members captured some rare scenes of the animals experiencing the falling snow.

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The Animal Care Stories That Shaped 2025 at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

We’ve gift-wrapped a few short highlights that capture the spirit of the year in animal care.

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Bao Li, Qing Bao and the Secrets of Summer Panda Life at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

How are the giant pandas spending their first summer in Washington, D.C.? And what’s changed since they arrived nine months ago? Keeper Mariel Lally explains.

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Young Pandas Seem ‘Very Interested In Each Other’, Say Keepers at National Zoo

Bleats and chirps between two giant pandas are a sure sign that flirtatious feelings are in the air! Read all about the 'bears and the bleats' in this update from the Zoo's panda keeper team.

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How Can You Tell the National Zoo's Giant Pandas Apart?

The Smithsonian's National Zoo's two giant pandas look quite similar to the untrained eye. Animal keeper Mariel Lally offers some tips you can use to spot the difference!

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To Keep the National Zoo’s Pandas Satisfied, Staff Prepare an Endless Supply of Bamboo

Take a look behind the scenes as animal care teams provide a daily bamboo buffet to the Zoo's new giant pandas.

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How Keepers at Smithsonian's National Zoo Help Giant Pandas Feel at Home

Get a behind the scenes look at how staff are helping giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao settle into their new home at the Zoo's Asia Trail exhibit.

Giant panda cub Xiao Qi Ji in a tree with his tongue sticking out

A Decade of Adorable Giant Panda Cam Moments

From newborn cubs to belly slides in the snow

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50 Panda Facts to Celebrate 50 Years of Giant Pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo

The Zoo has been home to giant pandas since 1972!

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Watch Giant Panda Xiao Qi Ji’s Best Moments of 2021

How do you measure a year of giant panda cub cuteness?

Giant panda Xiao Qi Ji upside-down in a hammock

Watch: 10 Animal Videos That Topped Our List in 2021

Look back on a year of animal antics and conservation stories

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