Expansion at Leipzig Zoo continues

The expansion of Leipzig Zoo is progressing steadily. "Next year, we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the master plan, which we have already implemented to a large extent," zoo director Jörg Junhold told the German Press Agency. By the zoo's 150th birthday in 2028, the visions of a modern zoo adopted at the turn of the millennium should have become reality. Numerous projects have already been completed. Two projects are currently being implemented, while a third is being planned.

"Tierra del Fuego" is taking shape

Progress is particularly evident in the work on the so-called "Tierra del Fuego" - an aquatic world for sea lions and penguins, inspired by the South American archipelago at the southern tip of the continent. According to the zoo, the shell construction is well advanced. Zoo visitors can take a look at the construction site from a platform. According to the current status, the "Tierra del Fuego" will allow guests to walk through a 360-degree tunnel and experience the marine mammals and birds up close from 2026.

The terrarium is currently being renovated right next to Tierra del Fuego. As the structure of the historic building is badly damaged and only the façade remains, it will be almost completely rebuilt before the planned reopening next year.

New "Asian Island Worlds" in sight

Work on the "Asian Island Worlds" is due to begin this year. Large bird shelters and islands for various animals are being built here. The start of construction for the first phase is planned for December 2024 at the site of the old bird aviary. Parakeet and parrot fans still have a week to see the current animals before they are moved or handed over in preparation for the construction work.

Two years ago, the zoo had to announce that the final stages of the expansion would be delayed and more expensive than originally planned. The reasons for this included the coronavirus pandemic, the explosion in construction costs and the shortage of skilled workers. The costs of the major projects increased by around 15 million euros. Leipzig Zoo is considered a national attraction for visitors.