China plans to release captive pandas into wild

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-14-2007 09:01

Scientists at China's Giant Panda Protection and Research Center are preparing to release captive pandas into the wild. The move is aimed at enhancing the animals' ability to live in a natural environment.

The release plan has three stages. First, the researchers will select four young pandas among the more than 100 captive animals at the research center. They're looking for pandas with sharp reflexes as well as the ability to learn and adapt.

Then the four candidates will receive four years of training, which will focus on raising running and fighting, to better their chances of survival in the wild. And finally, the researchers will determine an appropriate site for the release.

China's first released panda, the male "Xiang Xiang", died in February, after nearly a year of life in the wild. He was unable to compete for food and territory with wild pandas. Researchers say what happened with Xiang Xiang will not stop them from releasing the pandas.

And the experience suggests that a female panda would be in less danger because she would arouse less hostility. The release area should also be a habitat with a small number of wild pandas.

China currently has 239 captive giant pandas, and around 1,600 of the endangered species living in the wild.