Dear John,

As one of our most important conservation partners and wildlife allies, we wanted you to be among the first to know that we are taking an important step in our continued conservation efforts for giant pandas. We have signed a new conservation agreement with China Wildlife Conservation Association and filed a permit application through U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With this potential new chapter, we look forward to building upon our nearly 30-year partnership to save, protect, and care for giant pandas and the forest ecosystems they rely on to thrive.

Together, we have contributed to an increased scientific understanding of giant panda biology, care and wellness, and the evolving needs for pandas to thrive in a changing environment. Our collaborative efforts over the years with our Chinese partners has contributed directly to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List downgrading the giant panda from Endangered to Vulnerable in 2021. But there is still much work to do to secure their future and ensure they remain on a path to recovery. Climate change, habitat fragmentation, and population isolation are some of the significant challenges facing giant pandas and our strategic goal is to improve the health and resilience of giant panda populations.

The honor of welcoming a new generation of giant pandas to the San Diego Zoo highlights the critical role we can all have in conserving this iconic species. Our conservation partnership over the decades has served as a powerful example, showcasing how when we work together, anything is possible.

Together for wildlife,

Megan Owen, PhD
Vice President, Conservation Science
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance