Great news for panda lovers in Beijing as authorities revealed on Wednesday that the Chinese capital will open a conservation base in 2025, gathering dozens of the black and white bears.
Construction of Beijing's giant panda conservation base is currently in full swing. /CMG
This rendering shows Beijing's giant panda conservation base. /CMG
A giant panda rests on a wooden trunk. /CFP
Construction began in December 2022 on the base, which will span an area of about 133 hectares in a forest park in the city's southwestern district of Fangshan.
The first phase covers 63.5 hectares, and will be home to 40 giant pandas and other animals such as the golden snub-nosed monkeys and red pandas. Once completed, the base is expected to host 50 pandas.
The city's authorities said the location with dense forests is suitable for the ex-situ conservation of giant pandas.
Beijing's advantages in scientific research, talents and other resources are expected to help make new technological breakthroughs in giant panda breeding, rescue and other aspects.
A giant panda cultural exchange center will also be set up to promote the protection of the animal.
(Cover image via CFP, with input from Xinhua)