More Exciting News from Our Nation's Capital

From the National Zoo's Panda Page:

The giant panda mating season began early this year! The Zoo's animal care team noticed increased interaction between our adult pandas, including distinctive vocalizations that are associated with mating season. Staff immediately began monitoring Mei Xiang's hormone levels in her urine, which allows them to predict the exact moment of ovulation. Throughout the day on January 15, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian attempted to mate.

Zoo staff carefully observed the panda's activities and because competent mating did not occur, Zoo scientists and veterinarians performed two nonsurgical artificial insemination procedures over the weekend. Both pandas were anesthetized, allowing Zoo scientists to collect sperm from Tian Tian and insert it directly into Mei Xiang's uterus.

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Let the 13 - 27 week wait begin!