CHIANG MAI, 9 September 2013 (NNT) – Ling Ping, the Thai-born giant panda, will leave for China on the 28th of September 2013 to prepare for her entering productive age. Mr. Tanapatara Pongpamorn, Director of the Chiang Mai Zoo said at a press conference. It is expected that Lin Ping will accept a mate and the pair will return to Chiang Mai after one year.
The giant panda will travel on a special flight by Thai Airways International direct from Chiang Mai to Chengdu, China. Lin Ping’s vet team, both Thai and Chinese, will accompany her throughout the flight along with 300 passengers consisting of representatives of the Thai government, and members of her fan club and the media.
Lin Ping’s care takers have been training her to be familiar with staying in the cage and with airplane noises. They also believe that anesthetics will not be necessary. Toys and snacks have been prepared to lower stress caused by the flight.
7-day countdown activities have been planned for Lin Ping the week before her departure. The activities, starting from 21 September at the Chiang Mai Zoo, include Lanna-style cultural performances, essay writing and sculpting competitions. On the 27th an official farewell ceremony will be held, and on the 28th Zoo officials as well as members of the Chiang Mai municipality and provincial administrative organization will send Lin Ping off at the Chiang Mai International airport.
