Pandas return to China prompting mixed reactions in Ähtäri

News of the return of giant pandas to China and potential debt restructuring of the zoo companies spread rapidly across various media platforms on Monday evening. The news prompted local couple Kirsi and Tero Mukka to make a spontaneous trip to the Ähtäri Zoo.

“We decided last night that we should go see them,” Kirsi Mukka said, noting that the pandas were the main reason for their 130-kilometer journey. Although she admitted she hadn’t closely followed the global situation of pandas, she knew they were endangered and part of a conservation project. Tero Mukka expressed a desire for something interesting to replace the pandas in the zoo, suggesting, “A more exotic animal could entice us back.”

Ähtäri resident Heikki Karhunen shared his reaction to the panda news, saying, “It felt good. They were too expensive, and it’s probably for the best.” He believes the presence of the pandas has negatively impacted the city’s economy and is eager for the pandas to leave, emphasizing that global protection of endangered species is essential—but not necessarily the responsibility of local residents.

In contrast, local gas station cashier Julia Sloutina expressed sadness over the departure, stating that the pandas have become a highlight for many visitors and an attraction for families, especially children.

Finally, the zoo confirmed that the pandas have been leased from China since 2018 and that their return is influenced by various factors, including decreased tourism due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising costs linked to inflation and global events. Visitors will have the final opportunity to see the pandas on October 21.