Chengdu Panda
Jun 14, 2018 09:53:58 #
The Chinese government owns ALL of the world's Pandas. Zoos are charged $1 million dollars a year, with a minimum 10 year contract to display these amazing animals. The money made from these contracts goes directly to supporting the habitat and scientific research needed to preserve these animals, so it's a good thing in my opinion. About an hour and a half bus ride outside of the city of Chengdu, is the national reserve for Pandas. My son and I volunteered for a week of cleaning and caring for these animals (under the supervision of the keeper, of course). We were literally able to hand-feed these bears, which honestly took my breath away. An amazing experience that I will never forget. This is one of the bears that we assisted in keeping. By all means, if you get to China and want an amazing experience, this should be high on your list. Anyway, hope you enjoy this image.
Jun 14, 2018 09:56:49 #
Jun 14, 2018 10:13:57 #
Jun 14, 2018 10:16:20 #
Jun 14, 2018 10:20:37 #
I know. It is amazing how humanized these creatures become when you can really look into their eyes. I felt the same when I was doing the post processing on this image.
Jun 14, 2018 10:42:35 #
Jun 14, 2018 20:48:02 #
That sounds like an amazing experience! How did you set up such an intimate deal to work with and photograph the animals?
Jun 15, 2018 09:02:28 #
In Toronto, we enjoyed having two pandas at our zoo for 5 years. While they were here, twin cubs were born. The family of pandas has now moved out west for the next 5 years. It's a great program.
Pixeldawg wrote:
The Chinese government owns ALL of the world's Pan... (show quote)
Jun 15, 2018 10:18:53 #
One of nature's great creatures and we are so close to losing them forever without intervention and conservation.
Jun 15, 2018 10:30:01 #
Actually, the giant panda has been downgraded from "Endangered" to "Vulnerable" because China's careful work is making a difference. It is a great example of how science, political will and engagement of local communities combined can save wildlife and their habitats. The last census in 2014 showed there had been more than a 17% increase in the wild population in China.
sippyjug104 wrote:
One of nature's great creatures and we are so close to losing them forever without intervention and conservation.
Jun 15, 2018 12:01:00 #
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