Preparations for Lin Ping's journey
The Chiang Mai Zoo has made preparations to send Lin Ping to China.
The only giant panda born in Thailand is scheduled to temporarily leave the country to China on September 28. She will stay there for a year, to seek mate. Lin Ping has long been regarded as China's panda ambassador.
Singthong Buachoom, heading a sub-committee concerning the panda project in Thailand, said at a press conference on Sunday that a special flight is arranged, to fly the panda from Chiang Mai to Shantou. On the flight operated by Thai Airways International, there will be her personal veterinarian, other zoo officers, government representatives, her fans as well as media members. About 300 will board the flight, along with her toys and food supplies.
For now, Lin Ping is being trained to familiarise with a cage and aircraft noise. Singthong is confident that Lin Ping would not need the anesthetic injection during the flight.
From September 21 through September 27, the Chiang Mai Zoo will be hosting farewell activities for Lin Ping.
Lanna cultural show will be hosted. On September 27, there will be a traditional "Soo Kwan" ceremony, to mark the start of the major journey.
