'Handsome' panda and playful partner captivate Australian zoo-goers

Research cooperation

The presence of Xing Qiu and Yi Lan also reflects the significant strides in China-Australia conservation efforts.

"Adelaide Zoo and other Australian institutions have made extensive efforts in China-Australia giant panda conservation and research cooperation," Li said.

The zoo's Bamboo Forest panda enclosure is equipped with temperature control systems, with bamboo groves specifically cultivated to provide a regular supply of fresh varieties for the bears, he said.

"China's giant pandas enjoy star treatment here," Li said.

"The settlement of giant pandas in Adelaide has significantly advanced China-Australia biodiversity conservation efforts," he said, adding that Chinese experts head to Adelaide Zoo to provide support during each panda breeding season.

Hayward, the zookeeper, said: "We've had a keeper and a vet come and stay with us for a few months, and they were great, they were very helpful, they were here every day watching Xing Qiu and Yi Lan develop here in Australia, watching them get weighed, watching what bamboos they liked."

"We'd exchange different bamboo species, between what they eat in China and what they eat here in Australia, so it was really fascinating for both of us, learning from each other," she said, adding that zoo personnel from both sides exchange regular panda updates in line with the arrangement for the bears.

Smith, the zoo's acting director, said Xing Qiu and Yi Lan, "play a vital role in reinvigorating Australia's love of giant pandas and raising awareness of the global conservation efforts that protect this iconic species and their natural habitats".

"Through education and community engagement, we aim to inspire ongoing support for wildlife conservation both here and abroad," he said.

Zookeeper Cleere said public education is an integral part of the conservation effort.

"We love to educate everyone that comes through our gates about conservation, about giant panda conservation specifically," she said.

The zoo hopes to share with younger generations "how important giant pandas are to their environment… and hopefully help them enjoy the pandas as well," she added.