Pandas Lumi and Pyry to be repatriated from Ähtäri Zoo in Finland to China by end of November

Preparations are underway to repatriate the giant pandas Lumi and Pyry from Ähtäri Zoo in Finland to China, with a planned departure as early as the end of November. The zoo’s decision to return the pandas ahead of schedule stems primarily from financial difficulties exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a drop in tourism, and rising interest rates and inflation linked to the war in Ukraine.

Since their arrival in Ähtäri in 2018, the pandas have become a beloved attraction, but the financial strain has necessitated their return. In the coming weeks, the pandas will undergo health checks, including blood tests, antibody tests, and vaccinations. Necessary permits, including a CITES export permit from Finland, must also be secured. Prior to their relocation, the pandas will begin familiarizing themselves with transport crates to ensure a smooth transition.

As part of the process, male panda Pyry and female panda Lumi will enter a quarantine period of at least 30 days starting October 21. During this time, only their caretakers and a veterinarian will be allowed to visit, while strict protocols will be followed to prevent any transmission of diseases. Activities during quarantine will focus on minimizing stress, with regular feeding, sleeping, and playtime.

The actual flight from Finland to China is being arranged by Chinese officials, with details about the aircraft and route expected to be confirmed soon. Caretakers will accompany the pandas to provide reassurance during their journey, which Haapakoski believes the animals will handle well, given their current health and age. Once in China, the pandas will head to a conservation center, potentially in their homeland of Sichuan, where they will be part of efforts to protect and study the species.