The Giant Panda Cam at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is now up and running, showcasing the adorable antics of two new panda cubs. The cam went live on January 24th, offering a glimpse of Bao Li and Qing Bao as they made their public debut at the zoo in Washington D.C. The pandas had arrived at the zoo in October and were out of the public eye until now. A video of the playful pair rolling and sliding through snow drifts in their habitat had teased their arrival earlier in the month.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/panda-smithsonian-national-zoo-3-012425-b8b4b10ba7a54def86f421d697294ad3.jpg)
Brandie Smith, the director of the National Zoo, emphasized the educational value of the Giant Panda Cam in raising awareness and support for panda conservation efforts. The live stream allows people from around the world to witness these majestic creatures and hopefully inspire them to contribute to the cause. The popularity of the panda cam, which has been running since 2001, has only grown over the years, becoming a must-watch for animal lovers everywhere.
The cam operates daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST, with the feed transitioning to pre-recorded footage outside those hours. With 40 cameras capturing every move of the pandas both indoors and outdoors, viewers can enjoy a comprehensive look at their daily activities. The slight 15-minute delay in the feed ensures that any necessary interventions can be made promptly, although the zoo has yet to encounter a need for pausing the broadcast.
Bao Li and Qing Bao have been settling into their habitat for some time and are now ready to meet their adoring fans. The National Zoo is celebrating their arrival with a series of events, including the District of Panda Party. The community in Washington, D.C. has been integral in supporting the zoo’s panda program, with the pandas becoming a beloved part of the city’s culture over the past 50 years.
The story of the Giant Panda Cam’s relaunch has intrigued animal enthusiasts and touched the hearts of many, showcasing the efforts of the National Zoo in preserving these endangered species. The live footage offers a window into the lives of Bao Li and Qing Bao, highlighting the importance of conservation and the joy these pandas bring to people worldwide. As the panda cam continues to enchant viewers, the National Zoo remains dedicated to protecting these iconic animals for future generations to appreciate.