Pandas have taken over the Hong Kong International Airport! Travellers got a pleasant surprise on Monday as they witnessed a sea of panda sculptures at a World Wildlife Fund-sponsored tour. WWF is short for the World Wildlife Fund, an organization famous for promoting the harmony between man and wildlife.
The 1,600 pandas, made out of recycled paper mache, are the brainchild of French Artist Paulo Grangeon, who started the project in 2008. He says he enjoys working with WWF.
The French artist has held similar exhibitions in several cities around the globe, with new panda sculptures made by hand in Thailand for every new location.
The number 1600 represents the number of pandas left in the wild in 2008. Though many believe the number has risen considerably since then.
The 1,600 pandas will appear at 10 different Hong Kong landmarks until June 21st, after which they will be adopted out for between 200 and 450 USD. The proceeds will go to WWF, who will use them for conservation initiatives.