UTSC will host a seminar on giant panda conservation efforts on May 14. (Photo courtesy the Toronto Zoo)

The giant panda is an international symbol of conservation biology.
With fewer than 2,000 remaining, the iconic bear continues to capture
the hearts and minds of people world-wide.

But what makes giant panda conservation efforts such a challenge?
The University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) and the Toronto Zoo are
partnering to present a scientific seminar that will delve into the
issues and provide context ahead of the opening of the giant panda
exhibit at the Toronto Zoo.

The scientific seminarwill feature a presentation by
renowned giant panda expert Dr. Zhang Dehui from the State People's
Republic of China Forestry Administration, followed by a panel
discussion involving experts from China and the Toronto Zoo.

"It's a privilege for UTSC to host this important showcase of giant
panda conservation efforts," says Professor Malcolm Campbell,
vice-principal, research at UTSC.

"At UTSC we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of
intellectual inquiry to find solutions to tomorrow's most pressing
issues, including the conservation of the world's remarkable
biodiversity."

The partnership between UTSC and the Toronto Zoo is another example
of the growing collaborative ties between the two institutions.

“We are so pleased and honoured to co-host Dr. Zhang and
learn all about the amazing conservation efforts currently underway
and how Canadian institutions like UTSC and Toronto Zoo can assist in
saving this iconic species," says Maria Franke, Curator of Mammals at
the Toronto Zoo.

To observe a giant panda in its natural habitat is rare –
there are only an estimated 1,600 left in the wild and approximately
300 in captivity – but to have a pair loaned to a local zoo is
even rarer.

Enter Er Shun and Da Mao, the two newest additions to the Toronto
Zoo. The pair, who are six and five-years-old respectively, will
be on display for five years and the hope is they will breed during
their time in Toronto. It will be a difficult task given the giant
pandas finicky reproductive cycle, but a challenge the zoo is eager to
take on.

"The Toronto Zoo has been working on conservation breeding and
reintroduction programs for numerous Canadian endangered species and
it’s so exciting be a part of international conservation efforts
for the giant panda,” says Franke.

In addition to the presentation and panel discussion there will be
information packages on the giant panda, including videos and photos,
while a formal reception will follow in the IC Atrium.

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