Panda cub Le Le bids final goodbyes before his return to China – Singapore News
SINGAPORE – After capturing the hearts of visitors for over two years, two-year-old male panda cub Le Le is preparing to say his final goodbyes before departing for China on January 16, 2024. Le Le will be separated from his parents, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, and placed under quarantine before his journey. The adorable cub made his last public appearance on December 13 and will undergo a 4½-week quarantine starting from December 14.
Despite the River Wonders, Le Le’s current home, opening the gates at 10 am, eager visitors started trickling in as early as 8 am, according to a report by the Straits Times. Le Le has served as an amazing ambassador for his species, raising awareness about the challenges faced by giant pandas in the wild and highlighting China’s dedicated conservation efforts.
Mr. Mike Barclay, the group chief executive of Mandai Wildlife Group, expressed his gratitude for being entrusted with the care of giant pandas and the opportunity to play a part in China’s global network of panda conservation programs. Mr. Barclay reminisced about the day when Jia Jia, Le Le’s mother, was confirmed pregnant just five days before giving birth on August 14, 2021. Since then, over 1.8 million visitors from both Singapore and around the world have flocked to see Le Le and his parents.
Notably, Kai Kai and Jia Jia arrived in Singapore in 2012 under a 10-year agreement that was extended in September 2022, securing their stay until 2027. Singapore is among several countries that have signed agreements with China to host these beloved pandas.
Le Le, who turned two years old in August, has been displaying signs of growing independence, engaging in activities like eating, resting, and playing on his own. Jia Jia, his mother, has subtly started avoiding him, which is a natural part of a giant panda’s life stage. In the wild, mother pandas typically display these behavioral changes before eventually separating from their cubs.
As Le Le bids farewell to Singapore, he leaves behind countless memories and a legacy of conservation and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. His departure marks another chapter in the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve giant pandas worldwide.
In conclusion, Le Le’s departure from Singapore signifies both an end and a beginning. While it marks the end of his time captivating visitors in Singapore, it also highlights the ongoing commitment of Mandai Wildlife Group and China’s panda conservation programs to protect and conserve this endangered species. Le Le’s presence in Singapore has not only brought joy to millions but has also shed light on the importance of preserving and cherishing these gentle giants.
