Pandas Mate For First Time In 10 Years After Coronavirus Closes Zoo
A pair of pandas who had been trying to mate for over 10 years finally became successful after the zoo was shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Hong Kong zoo revealed that its resident male and female giant pandas had finally mated after many years of trying and failing.
RELATED: Chris Cuomo Shares Chest X-Rays As He Fights Coronavirus: You Have To Fight To Keep It Out
“The successful natural mating process today is extremely exciting for all of us, as the chance of pregnancy via natural mating is higher than by artificial insemination,” the executive director in Zoological Operations said.
“We hope to bear wonderful pregnancy news to Hong Kongers this year and make further contributions to the conservation of this vulnerable species.”
The Independent reports that the female giant panda, Ying Yang was spending more time in the water as Le Le, the male, left his scent around the habitat.
“Such behaviors are consistent with those common during breeding season,” said the zoo. “The teams have been closely monitoring the giant pandas’ body conditions and behavioral changes and deemed it a peak oestrous this morning for natural mating opportunity.”
Officials expect to see signs of pregnancy in early June, while the zoo tendons closed.