The giant pandas are scheduled to return to China in December.
"They’re the stars of the show here. And I mean, they’re a staple. I think of the Smithsonian Zoo, I think of the pandas," zoo visitor Jason Churchfield told TODAY.
Because of their popularity, they've raised millions of dollars and have helped open the door for others to learn about the value of conservation efforts. "There's been no greater ambassador to getting people to love animals, love nature, love conservation than the giant panda," said Magill. The Smithsonian's National Zoo is hoping a new partnership can be forged, but there still is time to see the giant pandas. The zoo is planning to send the three pandas off with a"Panda Palooza" celebration that will run from Sept. 23 through the beginning of October.
The Atlanta zoo is also home to giant pandas: Lun Lun and Yang Yang, and their cubs, Ya Lun and Xi Lun. The young cubs are expected to travel to China in early 2024, per the zoo's agreement with China. Their parents will remain at the zoo per the terms of their loan agreement, which is currently set to expire in late 2024.Camille Birdsong is a NBC News Associate working with the TODAY Show. At TODAY.com, she writes about the latest in pop culture, lifestyle, TV, movies, and anything newsy.
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