(CNN) — It seems all these giant pandas needed was a little privacy.
Parenthood might be around the corner for Ying Ying and Le Le, which are longtime residents of Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Zoo officials announced Monday that after 10 years of attempts at natural mating, and “through trial and learning,” the two have finally succeeded.
“Since late March, Ying Ying began spending more time playing in the water, while Le Le has been leaving scent-markings around his habitat and searching the area for Ying Ying’s scent,” reads the press release.
While it is still too early to tell whether a baby panda is on the way, staff is closely monitoring Ying Ying’s body and behavioral changes.
“If successful, signs of pregnancy, including hormonal level fluctuations and behavioural changes may be observed as early as late June, though there is always a chance that Ying Ying could experience a pseudo-pregnancy,” said Boos.
“We hope to bear wonderful pregnancy news to Hong Kongers this year and make further contributions to the conservation of this vulnerable species,” said Boos.
If Ying Ying is pregnant, the gestation period for giant pandas ranges between 72 and 324 days. The zoo said it will be sharing more updates on her journey to motherhood once more is known.
