The research and breeding centers were established to conduct scientific study on the Giant Pandas in order to help understand the species and increase the numbers in captivity.

Today there are over 300 pandas in captivity around the world. The goal is between 300 - 500. When the Wolong Center is rebuilt, it will include a state-of-the-art research center and breeding facility and an expansive reintroduction training area with the long term goal of releasing captive born pandas back into the wild.

The enclosures contain climbing platforms and other enrichment activities to keep the pandas engaged and active. The kindergarten area has appropriate toys to stimulate the young pandas. For the young, developing pandas the enrichment apparatus help the cubs and adolescent pandas gain strength, agility, and balance.

In the nursery, staff members serve as surrogate mothers feeding and caring for the newborn cubs. Time in the nursery is also a valuable tool for the veterinary staff to monitor the progress of the cubs making sure they are developing at the proper rate.

At the Panda Center, the health and behavior of all the pandas are carefully monitored and recorded.

Since monitoring the health of the pandas and administering medical care are vitally important to the pandas’ survival, all the pandas are trained to perform simple tasks. For example, the pandas are trained to extend their arm on a special shelf in order to have blood drawn or to receive injections.

In order to receive an ultra sound examination which is the only way to establish a true pregnancy, females in the breeding program are trained to enter the cage and lie on their backs.

Nutrition is very important for captive pandas. Their dietary needs are carefully studied and they are fed a special "Panda bread," developed from ground bamboo with extra vitamins and molasses, making it a nutritious and popular treat.