Farewell to France's Furry Ambassadors
France has bid an emotional au revoir to two beloved giant pandas who called the country home for over a decade. Huan Huan and Yuan Zi, both aged 17, began their journey back to China on Tuesday, 25th November 2025, from Paris' Charles-de-Gaulle airport.
The pair, who arrived at Beauval Zoo in 2012 as part of China's panda diplomacy programme, became national celebrities during their stay. Their departure marks the end of an era for French wildlife enthusiasts who've followed their story for 13 years.
A Carefully Planned Journey Home
The pandas travelled in specially designed white containers featuring windows and breathing holes, each marked with a cheerful "Bon voyage" inscription. Their 12-hour flight to China represents a carefully coordinated effort between French and Chinese veterinary teams.
Zoo Director Rodolphe Delord explained the reasoning behind their relocation during an airport ceremony. "They are reaching an age that requires highly specialized care," he stated, adding they would "benefit from the optimal environment" at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where both animals were born.
The decision was partly influenced by Huan Huan's health, as she has been diagnosed with kidney failure - a condition Delord noted isn't uncommon for carnivores of her age. The teams determined now was the appropriate time for their transfer while both pandas remain well enough to travel safely.
A Lasting Legacy in France
During their time in France, the pair contributed significantly to panda conservation efforts. Huan Huan gave birth to three cubs:
- Yuan Meng (2017) - the first panda ever born in France, since returned to China
- Female twins Huanlili and Yuandudu (2021) - remaining at Beauval Zoo for now
Their presence proved enormously popular with the public, helping Beauval Zoo attract 1.9 million visitors last year alone. The zoo emphasised that in Chengdu, the couple will "continue raising awareness of visitors about the conservation of this iconic species."
This movement of pandas reflects the evolution of China's diplomatic approach. Where once China gifted pandas to friendly nations, the country now loans them to zoos on commercial terms. With approximately 2,000 pandas living wild in China and 500 in captivity worldwide, each animal plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts.
