Münchener Tierpark Hellabrunn : Snowy Hellabrunn in second lockdown

[Link]

Copyright: Tierpark Hellabrunn / Marc Müller

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

[Link]

Fresh snowfall in the last few days has covered the zoo in a blanket of white, creating a winter wonderland that would usually attract large numbers of visitors. The atmosphere when Hellabrunn is plumed in crystals of snow is always very special. Notwithstanding the closure due to coronavirus restrictions, which has now been going on for ten weeks, the animal residents are looking forward to a welcome change - the Asian elephants, vicuñas, Przewalski horses and wood bison are clearly enjoying the wonderful snow.

However, the zoo also faces a number of challenges this winter. Ticket sales, which account for the majority of the zoo's revenue, have evaporated. Despite this, the cost of feeding and caring for the animals still has to be met. In addition, rising energy costs are a significant cost factor that will continue to be incurred despite the closure. On top of this, there are staff costs. 'Our zookeepers are not on reduced working hours - that would make little sense for us since their duties, namely caring for the animals, are also required during the lockdown. Although a few tasks such as regular window cleaning and visitor path maintenance are not considered essential, these hours are instead used for additional animal enrichment and training,' says Rasem Baban, zoological director of Hellabrunn Zoo. 'So we can safely say that our animals are doing well despite the extraordinary circumstances. But they would also be happy when visitors are able to return.'

Until then, Hellabrunn Zoo is grateful for any support it receives. Zoo director Baban says: 'Whether you make a donation, adopt an animal, become a sponsor or purchase a voucher for an annual pass or day ticket - every contribution helps us.' In the past year, animal adoptions have more than doubled and donations have also increased significantly. 'I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to all those who have supported us and remained loyal to us,' adds Baban.

In 2021, the focus will be on the construction of the new lion enclosure at Hellabrunn Zoo. Other modernisation projects scheduled under the Hellabrunn Master Plan will be postponed due to the pandemic. 'The priority at the moment is that we maintain ongoing operations. This of course includes, first and foremost, caring for the animals. We also hope we can welcome visitors again in the spring. But of course that depends entirely on whether the infection rate is brought under control. The situation is very challenging for all of us, but we will make the best of it,' says Baban.

Ways to support Hellabrunn Zoo:

• Adopt an animal from € 99 per year
• Become a Förderkreis (Friends of Hellabrunn Zoo) member, from € 80 per year
• Make a donation, one-off or regular, tax-deductible donation receipt provided
• Purchase advance tickets or vouchers

You can help the zoo as a private individual, organisation or company.

For more information please visit www.hellabrunn.de/gutscheine/besuch-planen and www.hellabrunn.de/helfen-spenden

Hellabrunn Zoo is temporarily closed to visitors until at least 31 January 2021 due to government restrictions to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.