Following a six-month panda hiatus, Washington D.C.’s National Zoo is anticipating an exciting panda comeback by the end of the year. 

The zoo announced on May 29 that it will be welcoming two new pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao. 

Both of the two-year-old pandas were born at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP). Bao Li’s name means “treasure” and “energetic” in Mandarin, and the name Qing Bao signifies “green” and “treasure” in Mandarin. 

“We’re thrilled to announce the next chapter of our breeding and conservation partnership begins by welcoming two new bears, including a descendent of our beloved panda family, to Washington, D.C.,” stated Brandie Smith, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s John and Adrienne Mars Director. 

Prior to their departure last fall, the giant pandas frequently drew large crowds to their exhibit. Visitors of all ages would line up for a chance to see the animals ambling around their habitat or happily munching on bamboo. 

According to the Wild Animal Health Fund, giant pandas are a vulnerable species, meaning they are at a high risk for extinction. In addition to providing the public an opportunity to see these rare animals, the National Zoo contributes to conservation efforts to grow panda populations in captivity and in the wild.