In September 2021, work began on the construction of the new wolf enclosure with an official groundbreaking ceremony. The project comprised a complete revamp of the enclosure, which included the installation of a new cave and enrichment trees, a wood-cladded visitor platform with a clear view into the enclosure and a new interactive educational concept with 12 displays around the facility explaining the threat to wolf’s natural habitat and return of the wolf to Germany. Most of this work was completed during the winter. The male bachelor group arrived from Riga Zoo and has been at Hellabrunn since spring.
Verena Dietl, chairwoman of the supervisory board and mayor, is delighted with the revamped enclosure, in particular the contemporary design of the educational displays: "The new features for the educational concept set new standards, especially in terms to accessibility. The two visitor bays offer step-free access. The educational elements are clearly presented and fulfil and support Hellabrunn's important educational mission. The displays are installed at a moderate height to take into consideration the needs of wheelchair users and children, without compromising visibility for adults. In addition, two audio animal info panels were installed, which enable visually impaired guests to play an audio version of the animal info panel on their smartphone in Braille and with the help of a QR code link. Inclusion is a top priority here!”
Rasem Baban, zoological director of Hellabrun Zoo, is also pleased that the new facility ensures that the European wolves at Hellabrunn Zoo have an excellent home for the future. He draws attention to the role of the wolf, which has been a companion to humans for thousands of years, and calls for greater awareness for dealing with encounters with the domestic predator. The demonisation of the wolf as a villain in folklore still shapes our attitude towards this animal today. However, in other ancient cultures, the wolf was admired and revered. “People were and still are fascinated by the wolf as a mystical fairy tale figure. It is therefore important to help demystify this,” says Baban.
"Although the European wolf’s natural habitat has severely shrunk due to human activity, over the last 20 years it has been gradually returning to its original home range after a long period of absence. Our primary goal is to raise awareness about its function in the ecosystem, to protect it from renewed threats in Germany and to assuage the public's concern about this intelligent animal. Our innovative education programme provides information about the wolf’s habitat and the role of the wolf in maintaining healthy animal populations, as well as its role in shaping the landscape,” adds Baban.
The zoo director also expressed his gratitude for the generous support provided by sponsors of the zoo: "Funding for the renovation work was provided in particular by the Hellabrunn Förderkreis and other donors. I would like to say a huge thank you to all the donors who regularly support the zoo, often very generously. This is an example of how they can experience first-hand how their contribution benefits the welfare our animals.”
“I would also like to thank the Horst Rohde Foundation for their generous support. The founder supports initiatives that work to protect animals, nature and the environment. With the Horst Rohde Foundation, we have a partner at our side whose support for projects such as the wolf enclosure illustrates the positive impact sponsorship can have on species conservation," concludes Rasem Baban.
Opening times in autumn and winter:
Until 29 October 2022, 9 am - 6 pm daily
From 30 October 2022, 9 am - 5 pm daily