Finland’s Ähtäri Zoo has announced that it will be returning its two giant pandas, Lumi and Pyry, to China due to financial constraints caused by inflation. The decision comes after the zoo’s financial struggles, which have been exacerbated by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandas, who have been popular attractions at the zoo since their arrival in January 2018, will be sent back to China on a ten-year loan agreement. The zoo cited the rising costs of caring for the pandas, including increased fees for bamboo and transportation, as well as ongoing maintenance expenses, as factors in their decision to return them to China.
Despite efforts to attract visitors and generate revenue, including a “panda experience” program and a dedicated panda shop, the zoo has faced difficulties in sustaining the high costs associated with the pandas. Inflation and the financial challenges brought on by the pandemic have further strained the zoo’s resources.
The decision to return the pandas to China has been met with disappointment from both zoo staff and visitors, who have enjoyed observing the animals during their time at the zoo. However, the zoo’s management has expressed that they believe it is the responsible decision in light of their current financial situation.
The pandas will be returned to China in the coming months, ending their stay in Finland. While the departure of Lumi and Pyry is bittersweet, the zoo is hopeful that they will be able to continue providing a safe and enriching environment for their other animal residents in the future.
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