Keep up to date with all the latest news on the departure of the pandas Huan Huan and Yuan Zi

A historic day

On Tuesday 25 November, Huan Huan and Yuan Zi left ZooParc de Beauval to return to China, marking the culmination of more than thirteen years of an extraordinary story. A look back at this memorable day, experienced with particular emotion.

A final tea party filled with deep emotion

On Sunday 23 November at 3 pm, Huan Huan and Yuan Zi’s final public feeding drew a particularly moved crowd. Despite the rainy weather, more than 200 people gathered in front of the giant pandas’ enclosures to bid them a warm farewell, just two days before their departure for China.

Ready for boarding: preparations are underway for Huan Huan and Yuan Zi’s departure

The big journey is drawing near… On 25 November, the lorry will leave ZooParc de Beauval at 5am, passing by the South entrance before setting off. It is due to arrive at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport at around 8.30am.

Anyone who wishes to do so can try to wave goodbye to Huan Huan and Yuan Zi one last time along the route. This will be a largely symbolic moment, as they will not be visible from outside the transport lorry.

For a less… early farewell, their final public feeding will take place on Sunday 23 November at 3.00 pm at ZooParc de Beauval. This will be a chance to see them one last time for a tasty treat before they fly off to China.

A glimpse into their lives before departure

What if you were to discover Huan Huan and Yuan Zi through the eyes of their keepers? This new video reveals a determined, attentive and gentle Yuan Zi, always punctual and true to his reputation as a ‘quiet strength’. Alongside him, Huan Huan displays a strong-willed character: she’s the one who calls the shots, with a distinct preference for lie-ins and laid-back days. A tender portrait ahead of their big departure.

Why are Huan Huan and Yuan Zi leaving?

After more than thirteen years at ZooParc de Beauval, Huan Huan and Yuan Zi are preparing to return to their homeland, China. In this video, find out the reasons behind their departure, the preparations being made by our teams, and the different ways you can send them a final message before their journey.

Huan Huan and Yuan Zi’s final snack

Before their big departure on 25 November, come and share a special moment with our two giant pandas! On Sunday 23 November at 3 pm, join us for their very last public snack time, hosted live by a ZooParc guide. It’s a chance to say goodbye to them and relive the memories we’ve shared since their arrival at Beauval.

Since 26 October, Huan Huan and Yuan Zi have been in quarantine, in accordance with the health protocol put in place. But don’t worry, the pandas can still be seen, both outdoors and indoors, through the glass.

On 25 November, they will not be visible to the public. Arrangements for their departure are currently being finalised, and we will let you know the exact time in mid-November if you’d like to say a final goodbye as the lorry sets off in the morning.

In the meantime, a special ‘Pandas’ postbox is waiting for you on site: please leave your farewell messages or drawings for Huan Huan and Yuan Zi there. You can also share your kind words on social media using the hashtag #DépartPandasBeauval. 

A final symbolic snack before their long journey home to their native land… not to be missed!

From Chengdu to Beauval: a historic journey

15 January 2012.
A Boeing 777, christened ‘The Panda Express’.
On board: two giant pandas, two keepers and Rodolphe Delord.

Relive the behind-the-scenes story of Huan Huan and Yuan Zi’s incredible journey in this video: their journey from China, their first steps at ZooParc de Beauval, the birth of their son Yuan Meng, and then of the twins Yuandudu and Huanlili. A unique adventure to relive, from behind the scenes of the journey to the most memorable moments since their arrival!

At the end of November, Huan Huan and Yuan Zi will return to their native China, whilst their twin daughters will remain at Beauval.

4 October: World Animal and Carer Day

4 October marks World Animals and Carers Day. A symbolic day to remind us just how much the wellbeing of the ZooParc’s residents depends on the dedication of those who look after them every day. Behind every species are passionate men and women, attentive to the smallest detail, ensuring the animals’ comfort and health.

Among them is Delphine, a panda keeper for the past 13 years, who shares a unique bond with Huan Huan and Yuan Zi. In this video, she talks about her daily life with them and the special emotion she feels as their departure approaches.