In the D.C. region, conversations often start with, “What do you do?” WTOP’s new series “Working Capital” profiles the people doing the work that makes the D.C. region so unique.
The giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute are famous throughout the world. But, if you thought the “pandamonium” when newcomers Bao Li and Qing Bao arrived at the zoo back in January was a big deal, you ain’t seen nothing yet.
In today’s episode of “Matt About Town,” WTOP’s Matt Kaufax (somehow) managed to get the incredibly rare opportunity to see the giant pandas up close in a way that many will never experience in their lifetime.
Matt talked to Mariel Lally, who, as the zoo’s animal keeper charged with caring for the pandas, arguably has the most enviable job in the D.C. region, if not the nation. He went behind the scenes with Lally to get a first-hand look at a training session, play time, and lots of snacking and sleeping.
Mariel grew up in the D.C. area and visited the Smithsonian Zoo often. She knew from a young age she wanted to be an animal keeper but never dreamed she would end up right in the nation’s capital with the pandas.
A temporary stint turned into a nine-year career, including highlights such as accompanying Bao Li and Qing Bao on the FedEx plane, dubbed the Panda Express, from China to the U.S.
Come along with Matt as he lives a day in the life of a panda keeper at the zoo.
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