
Thanks to Luke for sending: “Waiting to wave goodbye to the pandas…” (more…)

T-1 week to overwhelming sadness…

photo by angela n.
Well this is a terrible update from the National Zoo on the Giant Pandas:
“Giant pandas Mei Xiang, Tian Tian and Xiao Qi Ji will leave for China by mid-November. Make sure to plan your visit or tune in online to the Giant Panda Cam for your panda fix.”

photo by Emma K Alexandra
From the Smithsonian’s National Zoo:
“In the event of a government shutdown on Oct. 1, Smithsonian museums, research centers and the Zoo will remain OPEN through at least Oct. 7. The Smithsonian can use prior-year funds still available to us to remain open. Visit here for updates.”

ANC Commissioner Chris Hart writes: “Womp womp. Looks like the Zoo Loop is closing at 5pm again starting tomorrow. Anyone know if this is supposed to be seasonal? If so, why change it when sunset is still at 7:20?”
EHN’s communications director, Sharon Eliza Nichols, replies: (more…)

photo by Tim Brown
Oh God, it’s really happening – brutal post from the National Zoo this morning:
“Get ready to PAW-TAY! We’re throwing PandaPalooza: A Giant Farewell to cele-bear-ate our giant pandas, sponsored in part by The Boeing Company. Visit the Zoo between Saturday, Sept. 23 and Sunday, Oct. 1 for daily events, family-friendly activities and tasty treats provided by the Embassy of People’s Republic of China. #PandaPalooza, brought to you by entertainment partner, Events DC, is the perfect opportunity to say goodbye to Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and Xiao Qi Ji as they depart for China. (more…)

Update from the National Zoo:
“All clear! The Metropolitan Police Department has completed its sweep of the Zoo and found no evidence of a threat. The Zoo will remain closed today and reopen tomorrow, Aug. 30.” (more…)

photo by angela n.
From the National Zoo:
“After ~25,000 votes cast, our baby western lowland gorilla has a name Zahra! Thanks to everyone who helped us name our “beautiful flower.” She’s an adorable ambassador for her critically endangered species! (more…)

photo by Miki Jourdan
From the Smithsonian’s National Zoo:
“Due to the poor air quality in Washington, D.C., the Zoo is closed today, Thursday June 8, for the safety of our animals, our staff and our guests. Please check our website for reopening information.”

photo by angela n.
From the Smithsonian’s National Zoo:
“On May 27, 2023, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute welcomed its newest member to the western lowland gorilla troop! The baby girl was born at the Great Ape House to mom Calaya, age 20, and dad Baraka, age 31.
This new baby—the second for both parents—joins the Zoo’s troop of gorillas: (more…)