Panda caretaker embraces less to ensure conservation

The challenges and routines of reintroducing captive-bred offsprings into the wild

Many still remember the devastating 8.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Wenchuan, Sichuan province, in 2008. The quake also damaged the breeding bases of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda.

That year, part-time cleaner Mu Shijie, driven by his love for the national treasure, voluntarily dedicated himself to the restoration, reconstruction and relocation work at the panda base. After a month of effort, he was officially recruited as a caretaker.

Sixteen years later, Mu has evolved into an experienced trainer who helps giant pandas to be reintroduced into the wild.