Preparations are being finalised to artificially inseminate Adelaide's Giant Panda Funi.
Zoo officials will use the procedure this year after two failed attempts to have Funi and her mate Wang Wang mate naturally.
They believe the pair are within weeks of the breeding season which includes a very short reproductive window of just 48 to 72 hours.
Adelaide Zoo veterinarian David McLelland says hormone analysis will indicate the best time to utilise artificial insemination, a common practice to help Giant Pandas breed.
"We are hoping for a natural mating as it is clear our pair are compatible, however, young age and inexperience has prevented a successful mating in the two previous breeding seasons," he said.
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"Alongside natural mating attempts the team will perform one or more artificial inseminations."
A reproductive specialist has arrived from China to lead the procedure and will be supported by local scientists.
Panda keeper Simone Davey said in the past two weeks there had been significant changes in the behaviour of Wang Wang and Funi.
"They're showing prolonged rutting behaviours, scent marking and lots of climbing, especially from Funi," Ms Davey said.
"They have also both begun bleating at each other, which is used between pandas during the breeding season.
"In the coming weeks, we expect to see this vocal exchange between the pair increase indicating she will be receptive to Wang Wang's advances."
A successful southern hemisphere Giant Panda birth will be a world first.
