Heads up to D.C.'s panda-obsessed population -- you now have a better way to stay updated with the daily goings-on of Mei Xiang and Tian Tian.
The cams have been dark for an upgrade since May 30, but went back up Monday at noon, streaming live video of the bears. New upgrades now allow panda fans to watch live video of the zoo's giant panda on any computer, tablet or mobile device.
Cameras in Mei Xiang's den have been upgraded to high-definition to assist in a more clear view of her as she prepares to nest.
The zoo's panda team is monitoring Mei's behavior closely for a secondary hormone rise that would mark that the end of breeding season. At that point, Mei will either experience a psuedopregnancy or give birth within 40 to 50 days.
Vistors to the zoo will have an improved view, too -- they can watch the pandas' whereabouts at the newly renovated panda cam station at the David M. Rubenstein Family Giant Panda Habitat, which has new, larger flat-screen monitors.
The launch of the new cams coincides with Mei's 15th birthday. Zoo officials said Mei would celebrate with a panda-friendly frozen fruit cake Monday afternoon.
