Chengdu launches global search for panda keepers

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding has launched its "Project Panda", an online competition seeking six panda keepers, called "pambassadors", to work at the base. The initial ceremony of the project was celebrated at the Chengdu pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai on Monday.

The competition is supported by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The six panda keepers will work at the base in close contact with the pandas and have the opportunity to travel around the city to experience local life. They will take part in the rearing, healthcare jobs and act as promotional roles for the giant pandas.

The future of the giant panda largely relies on the global involvement in our efforts for its protection," said Zhang Zhihe, director of the base, at the initial ceremony.

People interested in becoming "pambassadors" can fi nd detailed information at www.pandahome.com and send their applications to the website.

The project has ignited enthusiasm among panda fans all over the world. The report of the organizer of the project on Wednesday showed that it had received 4, 210 applications and over 180, 000 people had visited the website in the first three days since the launch of the project.

Source: Chengdu.gov.cn