China is planning to reintroduce pandas into the wild, after years of carrying out specialist breeding and training programs. 6 pandas have been chosen as trailblazers, and they're currently in a transitional training base, preparing for their momentous return to nature.

The half-dozen bears were selected from 108 pandas living at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Breeding and Release Research Center -- which is also known as "Panda Valley".

The half-dozen bears were selected from 108 pandas living at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Breeding and Release Research Center -- which is also known as "Panda Valley".

Their selection follows a year-long study of their health and genetic backgrounds, and they'll stay at the base for several years, to fully hone their panda survival skills.

Panda Valley aims to develop a wild panda population in China, while continuing to protect its captive pandas.

The base lies deep in the mountains of Sichuan province, and provides a safe, natural environment for the endangered species.