Sichuan pandas getting used to new home well

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Source: CCTV.com | 07-02-2008 14:02

The earthquake seriously damaged parts of the Wolong Giant Panda Protection and Research Center. The aftermath of the disaster continues to pose geological threats to the animals' home. Some pandas were relocated to natural reserves and zoos.

Some pandas were relocated to natural reserves and zoos.

This is Tuantuan and Yuanyuan. The pair was selected last year as a gift for Taiwan. The couple bravely escaped their cottage at Wolong during the earthquake, and were found by their keepers. They are now being taken care of at the Ya'an Giant Panda Breeding Base. Although they lost a few kilograms and were frightened and miserable when they first arrived, it didn't take them long to regain their appetite and their spirit.

Huang Yan, Deputy Chief-Engineer of Giant Panda Protection and Research Center said "The staff here are trying to build trust and emotional attachment with the pandas. The psychological treatment is performed in a very loving way. For example, the keepers put the food on their palm for the pandas to chew, unlike before when they normally ate by themselves. This is a form of communication between the staff and the animals."

The Ya'an Base has become the biggest sanctuary for pandas affected by the quake. So far, 27 have been transferred here from Wolong. Ya'an has adequate supply of bamboo leaves, so food is not a problem. But the average temperature here is three to four degrees hotter than Wolong. Air-conditioners are being installed in the pandas' cottages to keep them cool and comfortable.

Almost ten of the relocated pandas will become mothers in a few weeks time. They've been receiving extra care as preparations are made for their impending motherhood.

In south China's Guangdong Province, five pandas arrived from Sichuan last week. They are getting used to their new home at the Guangzhou Pearl River Wild Animal Park. Their rooms are air-conditioned and disinfected every day. The high-profile newcomers are also being watched by animal doctors around the clock.

Zhang Delu, General Manager of Pearl River Wild Animal Park said "The pandas are accompanied by our zoo staff and keepers from Sichuan every day and night. Some panda experts and professors will be here to examine their psychological condition in a few days."

The park is doing all it can to ensure that the pandas are provided with nutritious meals, a comfortable environment and the best care. The animals are yet to receive routine health checks. If everything goes well, they'll make a public appearance next week.

Editor:Xiong Qu