Alicia, Zhou Zhou and Lin Wei - Singapore Conversation Efforts

This is a summary of the efforts by Singapore Wildlife Reserves (WRS) in conserving pandas.(Credits to Singapore Zoo and WRS for giving us these links: http://www.wrs.com.sg/pdf/yrbk0910b.pdf, http://wrscomsg.wordpress.com/category/river-safari/)

This collaboration between China and Singapore is a joint effort to promote giant panda conservation, raise public awareness of conservation and implement a giant panda breeding research programme. There are interactive interpretives, educational programs and behind-the-scenes experience on panda care which will help to enhance experience and generate awareness of the conservation issues on China wildlife. They hope that through adopting the pandas, it would allow visitors to learn about the endangered species and how they can involve themselves in protecting their eco-system.

The environment, which serves as Kai Kai and Jia Jia exercise yard and cubbing den, meets the expectations of the World's Association of Zoos and Aquarium.Prior to their arrival, the WRS had already planted six different species of bamboos. There is a specialised team of 4 zookeepers, veterinarians and researchers, focusing on the husbandry needs and veterinary care of the pandas. In the next 2 years, the team will refine its skills in husbandry nutrition, housing and reproduction of pandas. In addition, four staff from the China's panda team will be in Singapore to train the panda team and ensure an ideal habitat for the giant pandas. 

The River Safari is also the first recipient of the Building and Construction Authority's Green Mark Platinum Award. Thus, this shows that the habitat the pandas are living in is a conducive one. 

In December 2012, visitors learnt about the importance of conservation through a special exhibition at Singapore Zoo which featured the life of giant pandas in China. There were exciting activities such as panda face-painting and panda origami making to involve the children, at the same time. Currently, 'Rolling with Pandas' is a talk available to interested participants who would like to know more about pandas (at least 20 participants).