Washington zoo wants longer panda stay

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Washington's National Zoo is negotiating with China in an attempt to extend the U.S. stay of its popular baby panda, Tai Shan.

While the original agreement between the Washington facility and the Asian nation called for the panda to be sent to China when it turns 2, National Zoo officials began negotiations Friday for a longer stay, The Washington Post reported.

The baby panda was born back on July 9, 2005, and zoo officials said they expect it to remain in Washington until early fall unless negotiations progress.

Paired up with its parents, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, Tai Shan quickly became one of the National Zoo's top exhibits.

Thousands of people even showed up last year at the Washington zoo to help celebrate Tai Shan's first birthday.

While Tai Shan may ultimately have to be returned this year to China, its parents will remain at the National Zoo as part of a 10-year-loan from the China Wildlife Conservation Association.

The newspaper said that loan began back in December 2000.