Neuwied Zoo

Neuwied Zoo, located on the edge of the town of Neuwied in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, is a zoological institution bordering the Rhine-Westerwald Nature Park. Opened to the public in 1970, it has evolved from an initial focus on Australian fauna into a scientifically managed zoo with a significant emphasis on breeding programs and public education.

History and Development

Upon its opening, Neuwied Zoo featured a strong representation of Australian animals, including Tasmanian devils, echidnas, dingoes, wombats, and a large kangaroo herd. Early successes in breeding were notable, with the first successful breeding of South African bonteboks in Germany and world-first breeding of various parrot species. The zoo also achieved Germany's first natural ostrich breeding and successful breeding of pink-backed pelicans.

A significant transitional period occurred in 1980 when the premises were leased by an animal dealer, operating it as a private and animal trade zoo. This era saw the temporary housing of animals like elephants, gorillas, and hippopotamuses. However, challenges with wildlife conservation regulations led to the dealer relinquishing the lease in 1985, bringing the zoo to the brink of closure.

In 1984, a dedicated group of citizens formed a zoo society, revitalizing the institution through donations and admission fees. Under the scientific direction of biologist Heinrich Klein, the zoo underwent substantial changes. New facilities were constructed, including an exotic animal house with terrariums and aviaries, an enlarged carnivore house, and a large seal exhibit featuring an underwater observation tunnel. Subsequent developments included a new lemur house (2000), a renovated lion exhibit (2003), a penguin exhibit for Humboldt penguins (2004), and a new primate house (2006). The zoo has continued to expand and renovate exhibits, incorporating features like bathing ponds for big cats and creating cliff landscapes for griffon vultures.

Current Collections and Features

Neuwied Zoo currently spans approximately 13.5 hectares and houses around 1,543 animals representing 183 species. It is recognized for its large herd of grey kangaroos, which is the biggest outside of Australia, co-housed with red-necked wallabies and emus in a 3.5-hectare enclosure. A special focus is placed on conservation efforts for species extinct in the wild, such as the Barbary lion, with a small breeding pack residing at the zoo since 2004.

Other notable inhabitants include chimpanzees and various New-World monkey species in a modern primate house. The zoo's big cat enclosures are distinct, featuring a feeding system unique in Germany. The 'African Savannah' exhibit allows visitors to observe Ankola-Watusi cattle alongside sitatungas and ostriches. The exotic animal house provides a warm environment for a variety of reptiles, insects, spiders, birds, and mammals, including crocodiles.

Education and Conservation

Neuwied Zoo actively engages in educational outreach, offering programs for schools and organizing children's parties. A petting zoo and nature trail complement these initiatives. The zoo continues to achieve breeding successes, including a notable instance of ten cheetah cubs born on the same day, with eight surviving to adulthood. These ongoing breeding efforts underscore the zoo's commitment to conservation.