Family fun: The giant panda exhibit at the National Zoo

The Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington D.C. has a number of exhibits, but one of its most popular exhibits is the Giant Panda habitat. There are 3 giant pandas living at the exhibit in the National Zoo. Mei Xiang and Tian Tian both hail from the China Research and Conservation Center. Mei Xiang, the female panda, was born in July 1998. Tai Shan, came into the world in August of 1997. The pair had their first offspring in 2005, a baby boy (Tai Shan left the zoo in 2010).

In Aug. 2013 after a long process of trying to have a successful, full-term pregnancy, Mei Xiang gave birth to another baby, this time a girl (this birth came after two unsuccessful natural breeding attempts and Mei Xiang was later artificially inseminated). After the 100-day Chinese custom for naming baby pandas, the new baby was named Bao Bao. I haven't been to see the newest addition yet, but hope to go visit soon. 

 (Video courtesy of Jusywho. November 2013 Footage recorded from Smithsonian's National Zoo Giant Panda Cam )

Visitors can see the giant pandas eat, lounge about or play. Watching the pandas is fascinating, and their beauty, gracefulness and funny antics always draw a crowd.   

If you do plan to visit the National Zoo, do be sure to stop by and see this exhibit. Make sure to bring your camera! Chances are one of them will be pretty playful and you can get some terrific souvenir shots. The panda house is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The zoo's website recommends getting in line early.