Debut date announced for pandas at San Diego Zoo, along with video

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The first official video of two giant pandas who now call the San Diego Zoo home has been released by zoo officials, just ahead of their public debut.

The panda pair arrived in America’s Finest City from China earlier this summer, making them the first pandas to enter the U.S. in 21 years.

Since arriving in late June, four-year-old Yun Chuan and three-year-old Xin Bao have been acclimating to their home in the newly reimagined Panda Ridge. On July 9, zoo officials released first-look photos of the pandas .

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance reported at that time that care teams were closely watching the bears as they settled in. Veterinary teams locally and from China have since been monitoring the pair to ensure they thrive in their new environment.

On Friday, the Wildlife Alliance released the first official video of the giant pandas in San Diego. They could be seen roaming and exploring their new home, which is four times larger than the zoo’s previous panda habitat. The space is inspired by geological formations in China, mimicking mountains, canyons and cliffs.

Along with the video, the Wildlife Alliance also announced the highly anticipated debut date for the panda pair. Visitors to the San Diego Zoo will officially be able to see Yun Chuan and Xin Bao starting Thursday, Aug. 8.

“We are delighted to introduce Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to our San Diego Zoo community,” said Paul Baribault, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Our newest residents will bring joy to our visitors and symbolize the enduring spirit of international conservation efforts. Together with our partners, we continue to make significant strides in ensuring a hopeful future for this iconic species.”

The zoo is offering three ways for guests to experience the giant pandas. While visiting, guests can either obtain a complimentary “Giant Panda Timed Ticket” or join the standby line. Additionally, guests can make reservations for an exclusive 60-minute “ Earl y Morning with Pandas Walking Tour .”

The wait is almost over panda lovers.

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