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We had a FABULOUS 24 hours at the Wolong Giant Panda Reserve, in the high mountains of Sichuan province about 4 hours out of the provincial capital of Chengdu. They have nearly 60 pandas there, most within just a few feet of the visitors. The animals fall into three basic categories: babies (less than a year old...talk about cute!); sub-adults (1-4 years of age, up to about 50 kilos in weight); and adults (who always remain alone except when mating). At this time of year, with temperatures around or below zero C, few visitors appear; which has decided advantages though our feet and fingers were constantly chilled. The Center is attempting new Panda breeding whenever possible (we witnessed one unsuccessful attempt, up close and personal). (Female pandas are in heat for only about 2 weeks/year, and can become pregnant for only about a 72-hour period.)
We had a wonderful time entering an enclosure with six sub-adults and getting to play with them, while our guide took over 100 digital photos. See the separate web page on this experience. Also see another webpage devoted to Panda babies. |
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