A new home for China’s beloved giant pandas has opened its doors in Mianyang, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The Mianyang base of the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda officially began trial operations on Tuesday after three years in the making.

Thirteen pandas from the Centre’s Wolong Shenshuping and Dujiangyan bases have moved into the scenic 120-hectare site, which features more than 50 modern enclosures designed for breeding and comfort. “We have selected both male and female pandas of different ages to help them better adapt to their new environment,” said Huang Zhi, head of the base’s preparatory team.

Once the pandas have settled, the base will welcome visitors to experience the nation’s conservation success up close. Mianyang, home to 418 wild giant pandas – over 20 percent of China’s total population, now stands as a leading hub for panda research and protection.

Source: China Central Television