Chengdu Shi, China

Leaving Cambodia early this morning for our flight to Cheng Du, China. Upon arrival, we visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (short Chengdu Panda Base), a non-profit organization engaged in wildlife research, captive breeding, conservation education, and educational tourism. The Chengdu Panda Base was founded in 1987, with six giant pandas rescued from the wild. At the end of 2010 Chengdu’s captive population has increased to 97 individuals from that founding population of only six. Genetic diversity in the population is sustained by the exchange of preserved genetic material with other facilities. Chengdu Panda Base has not taken any giant pandas from the wild for 20 years. This demonstrates an unique and uncompromising commitment to the conservation of the wild (in situ) population and the healthy growth of the captive (ex situ) population. Due to research and commitment to animal health and welfare, 124 giant panda cubs have been born to this Base in 85 litters, 88 survived and they now have 97. To assist other institutions holding giant pandas Chengdu Panda Base provides technical support and sends their experts to assist with care, rearing, and breeding. So that all giant panda researchers can share their knowledge, the Giant Panda Annual Technical Meeting is hosted by Chengdu Panda Base, inviting researchers from all over the world to share information to improve captive management for the conservation of giant pandas. The Chengdu Panda Base covers an area of almost 200 hectares. We saw several Giant Panda’s and Red Panda’s. Lots of little children and families were at the Panda Base as it is winter holiday for the kids this month. One of the hilarious guys in our group kept hopping in photos with the little kids. They we’re giggling and loving the interaction with Westerners. We returned to our hotel for a quiet evening of room service and relaxation. The Shangi-la hotel in Chengdu is very modern and wonderful. We have a view of the river and downtown that is reminiscent of the Ritz in Shanghai. Skyline is very grey with smog and clouds. Chengdu is the 4th largest city in China. 1 US Dollar=6.10 Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)