Giant panda Da Li, a beloved symbol of China’s conservation efforts, has tragically passed away, according to an official statement from the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center on August 26th. The male panda, estimated to have been born in 1999, had been under the center’s care since 2001 when he was rescued in the wild in Baoping County, Ya’an City, Sichuan Province.
Upon rescue, Da Li was found with severe injuries to his left hind leg, which had become infected and necrotic. He underwent amputation at Sichuan Agricultural University and later rehabilitated at the center’s Ya’an base before being transferred to the Dujiangyan base. Throughout his life, Da Li enjoyed relatively good health, serving as a symbol of resilience and conservation success.
However, as Da Li entered his golden years, his health began to deteriorate. Since July 13th, 2024, the panda experienced a decline in appetite, consuming less and less of his bamboo and supplementary feed. The center’s veterinarians conducted a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, while the dedicated keepers prepared nutrient-rich liquid feed to support his health. Despite these efforts, Da Li showed signs of worsening health on August 9th, leading to intensified medical care and attention. Despite the team’s best efforts, Da Li tragically passed away on August 12th.
Post-mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was a combination of age-related heart disease and multi-organ failure. This unfortunate loss has saddened the global conservation community, as Da Li had become a cherished figure in the ongoing efforts to protect and understand the vulnerable giant panda species.
Giant pandas, known for their distinctive black and white fur and bamboo diet, are an endangered species with an estimated population of fewer than 2,000 individuals in the wild. The China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center plays a crucial role in the preservation and study of these iconic animals, providing care and rehabilitation for injured or orphaned pandas while contributing to scientific research and public education.
The death of Da Li serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in conserving endangered species, particularly as animals age. Despite the progress made in panda care and medical treatment, the natural decline in health that comes with old age remains a significant challenge. Conservationists and veterinarians continue to work tirelessly to improve the lives and survival rates of these magnificent creatures.
The loss of Da Li has resonated with panda enthusiasts worldwide, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts and the need for continuous support for organizations like the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center. As the world mourns the passing of this gentle giant, his legacy will inspire future generations to cherish and protect the natural world and its precious inhabitants.
In the words of the center’s statement, Da Li will be remembered for his resilience and the hope he brought to the conservation of his species. His story serves as a testament to the dedication of those working in wildlife preservation and a call to action for increased global commitment to the survival of endangered animals.
Note: The original text provided was in Chinese, and this article has been translated and adapted for an English audience. The content has been summarized and rephrased to maintain clarity and coherence while preserving the original facts.
【source】http://www.chinanews.com/sh/2024/08-26/10274955.shtml
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