Smithsonian Zoo Animals Enjoy a Day in the Snow

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: February 3, 2021 4:45 pm

Giant panda cub, Xiao Qi Ji plays in the snow for the first time

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

As January drew to a close and snow blanketed Washington DC the animals at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo were let loose to play in the winter wonderland.

One of the most exciting events which occurred during this snowfall was giant panda cubs Xiao Qi Ji first experience with snow. The little cub was initially nervous but eventually worked up the courage to have a taste of the snow.

Adult giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian play in the snow

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

His parents Mei Xiang and Tian Tian didn’t miss out on some fun in the snow being seen on panda cam sliding down hills on the snow. Elsewhere on Asia Trail the red pandas foraged through the snow for blueberries.

At the Smithsonian’s Conservation Biology Institute the Przewalski’s horses frolicked in the snow. While it may seem like a cold environment it was nothing compared to their native home in the Gobi desert of Mongolia where temperatures can reach -50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

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Learn more about giant pandas here – Giant Panda Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on their website – Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Clockwise from left – A przewalski’s wild horse, a red panda and a bobcat play in the snow

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo