Details the efforts made in the early 80's to reintroduce interest and knowledge of the giant panda. Beginning with a history of the animal and the first attempts to bring pandas to the West, and the eventual decision of the Chinese government to cease export of pandas, moves into an examination of more recent efforts both in China and abroad to scientifically analyze and promote continued survival of pandas. Culminates with the development and successful breeding attempts of the National Zoo's panda program.