Field hamster population in Saxony to grow
"Hamsters" in Saxon: with the support of the EU, the population of field hamsters in the Free State is to be strengthened. Their last refuge is here in northern Saxony.
News about #Animal
Drought and heat: animals need help
Lots of sun and little rain. What sounds like great summer weather to some people can be dangerous for wild animals.
African swine fever lifted in the district of Görlitz
The first case of the animal disease was detected in eastern Saxony almost five years ago. Since then, attempts have been made to contain the disease - with success.
Thousands of fish die in Czech lake
Thousands of fish die from a lack of oxygen in a lake in northern Bohemia near the border with Saxony. The mass die-off was caused by the extreme heat.
Fire salamander acutely threatened by water shortage
Sufficient water is a matter of survival for fire salamanders. As many streams are currently running low on water due to the drought, the amphibians are under threat.
Görlitz panda cubs undergo a health check
A month ago, two Red Pandas were born at Görlitz Zoo. Until now, their gender has been unclear. Now there is certainty.
Greens want to protect animal shelters from future cuts
Animal shelters are also benefiting from Saxony's new state budget. They will receive more money than the government originally intended to allocate.
New wolf pack detected in the district of Saxony
A stray wolf pup has provided proof: There is a new pack of wolves in the district of Leipzig.
Tapinoma ant is spreading - how can it be recognized?
The introduced ant species Tapinoma magnum is being discovered in more and more places in Germany: until now, it was more common in the south-west. Now the first evidence has also been found in eastern Germany.
East-West love bears fruit: young storks are ringed
A foreign stork has thrown a female's long-term partner out of the nest in northern Saxony - in the middle of the mating season. But there are still offspring.
Saxony demands nationwide solidarity for animal diseases
In 2020, African swine fever broke out in Brandenburg, Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. There are no borders. What conclusions does the Free State of Saxony draw from this?
Encounter with a cougar: no eye contact and withdraw
A cougar may be on the loose in the south of Saxony-Anhalt. The district advises caution and has tips for an encounter.
Search for big cat in southern Saxony-Anhalt continues
Is there a predator on the loose at Lake Geiseltal? The police are on the lookout. The trigger is a video that was circulated online. It is not yet clear what kind of animal was seen.
Big cat spotted in the south of Saxony-Anhalt
Is there a big cat on the loose in the Saale district? The police are on the lookout. There is a warning.
A new nature trail has been created at Lake Bockwitz
More than three decades ago, lignite was still being mined in the Borna-Ost/Bockwitz open-cast mine. Today, water buffalo, cattle and Boer goats graze there. An educational trail now provides information about grazing.
Dangerous oak processionary moth is being combated again
Walkers and cyclists beware: The hairs of the oak processionary moth can cause skin rashes. In many places, the pest is controlled with tiny threadworms.
Meerkats and whooper swans with offspring at Hoyerswerda Zoo
Visitors can look forward to seeing six baby animals. However, caution is advised with the swans.
Conversion of Leipzig Zoo to be completed in 2028
Leipzig Zoo has been undergoing fundamental renovation and conversion work for 25 years. The major project is soon to be completed.
Fewer birds spotted in Saxony's gardens
Sparrows are among the most common birds in Saxony. However, fewer of them have recently been observed in the Nabu bird census. What is the trend for other species?
Chemnitz wildcats have offspring
The wildcats in the Oberrabenstein wildlife enclosure - part of the Chemnitz zoo - have been busy producing offspring for six years now. Now the time has come again.
Many dangers for hedgehogs in Saxony from humans
They are cute, despite their prickly defenses. But hedgehogs live dangerously in Saxony. Their habitats are becoming smaller and there is less food - partly because of humans.
Fire department rescues Icelandic pony from ditch
In Dresden, a pony slips into a ditch at a roadworks site. And gets stuck. The fire department rushes to help. And the emergency services have a good idea.
Fire department rescues Icelandic pony from ditch
In Dresden, a pony slips into a ditch at a roadworks site. And gets stuck. The fire department rushes to help. And the emergency services have a good idea.
One third of animal and plant species in Saxony under threat
The message for International Biodiversity Day sounds depressing. According to estimates, 150 species become extinct every day. Species extinction does not stop at Saxony either.
Koala cub in Dresden blinks out of the pouch
Only six months after birth does a koala cub dare to take its first look out of its mother's pouch. However, a specific feature cannot yet be determined.
Leipzig Zoo gives two elephants to Hellabrunn Zoo
The elephant cow Rani and her daughter Savani had to leave Leipzig - because of quarrels in the herd. In Munich, they are to settle down and start a new family line.
42 field hamsters start a new life in the wild
More than 40 field hamsters bred in Leipzig were nursed back to health in Halle and have now been released into the wild in northern Saxony. The project is thus entering a new round - and aims to save a species that has almost disappeared.
Fewer bee colonies in Saxony for the first time in years
Beekeepers in Saxony have their hands full: it's swarming season. And the honey chambers in the beehives are also filling up. But the number of bee colonies has fallen. What are the reasons?
Left and Greens demand more money for animal shelters in Saxony
Saxony's animal shelters have been working at the limit for a long time. Now the state subsidies are to be cut back considerably. The Left and the Greens are not prepared to accept this.
Nabu: Fewer birds sighted and counted in gardens
Populations of bird species such as sparrows, tits and blackbirds are declining - even though they are still the most frequently spotted in gardens. This also says something about the state of the ecosystem.
Federal police officers pull dachshund puppies out of circulation
Animals need documents when entering Germany. The EU pet passport is required to clearly identify an animal and check its health status.
Minister: Lower protection status for wolves is a positive signal
How to deal with wolves has been the subject of debate in Saxony for years. Many see the growing population as a threat to livestock farming. Now the EU Parliament wants to make it easier to shoot wolves.
Endangered hamsters return to Saxony's fields
The next round of reintroductions for the endangered field hamster is underway in Saxony. The aim is to maintain stable populations - and to benefit the entire cultural landscape.
Presumably sick wolves on the move in Petersroda
Two wolves, probably suffering from mange, have been spotted in the district of Anhalt-Bitterfeld, close to the border with Saxony. The animals showed little shyness.
Animal experiments in Saxony: one third less approved in 2024
Significantly fewer animal experiments were approved in Saxony last year. There was also a decrease in the number of animals used, but one number has increased significantly.
Leftists criticize number of animal experiments in Saxony
Science uses animals for experiments. This is controversial. In the age of high tech and artificial intelligence, the left is asking itself whether there is another way.
More livestock killed by wolves
Last year, for the first time in a long time, fewer wolf kills were recorded in Saxony. This year things are different again.
Leipzig man kills his girlfriend's dog with stab wounds out of frustration
A man from Leipzig is on trial for allegedly killing his girlfriend's dog with 15 stab wounds out of frustration. The case shows the man's frightening propensity for violence.
Avian influenza: Dead swans found at the Pirk dam
The risk of bird flu remains high in Saxony. The virus has now been detected in the Vogtland district.
Almost one billion eggs: production up in Saxony
Saxony's hens are growing: Almost one billion eggs came from the state in 2024 - including an increasing number of organic eggs. This makes Saxony one of the top five egg producers in Germany.
Environment Minister: population regulation of wolves essential
There is an emotional debate in Germany about how to deal with wolves. Many see the increase in the population as a threat to livestock farming. There are therefore calls for population regulation.
Significantly more TBE cases in Saxony - vaccination rate too low
They are small, bite and want blood. But ticks can also transmit dangerous pathogens. Most of Saxony is considered a risk area for one of them - but there is protection.
Stork pair breaks up: Stork from Lake Constance takes over territory
A foreign stork has thrown a female's long-term partner out of the nest in northern Saxony - in the middle of the mating season. Now the newcomer from southern Germany is supposed to provide offspring.
Saxony has ASF under control
A lucky escape and staying vigilant: that's how you could casually sum up the African swine fever situation in Saxony so far. The authorities want to remain vigilant.
Another gorilla dies at Leipzig Zoo
Two gorillas have died within a week at Leipzig Zoo - a tragic loss for the gorilla group and their keepers. It is still unclear what caused the animals' deaths.
Surveillance zone lifted after bird flu in Grimma
Following a case of bird flu in Grimma, a ten-kilometer surveillance zone was set up. This is now being lifted.
Court overturns authorization to shoot wolves
30 dead sheep and goats - but a wolf in Upper Lusatia may not be killed for the time being. A court has stopped the planned cull and doubts the legality of the permit.
Kangaroo offspring at Chemnitz Zoo
Two Bennett's kangaroos at Chemnitz Zoo currently have a surprise in their pouch: offspring are growing there.
Gorilla Kio dies after risky anesthesia at Leipzig Zoo
Gorilla Kio, the youngest member of the group in Pongoland, has died after a risky anesthetic. The grief over his death is palpable throughout the zoo.
Horses also need a CT scan - new device in Leipzig
The equine clinic at Leipzig University has put a new CT scanner into operation. The four-legged friends can now be examined better than before.
Beekeepers worried about colony losses - Is honey becoming scarce?
After the winter, the warm rays of sunshine lure the bees out of their homes again. Crocuses and willows provide the first food. But some beekeepers in Saxony are in for a rude awakening.
Torgau bears soon to be seen on guided tours
The North Saxony District Office is opening the season with a new offer: visitors can experience the bears Bea and Benno up close.
Frogs on the move in Chemnitz - city calls for protection
Rising temperatures and the first rays of sunshine are not just a reason for people to be happy. Animals such as frogs also take advantage of the onset of spring - but not without danger.
Red kites are increasingly wintering in Saxony
The red kite used to migrate to the south of France during the cold months, but now hundreds of birds spend the winter in Saxony. How did this new behavior come about?
A new shine for mother-of-pearl: millions invested in Adorf
Once upon a time, Adorf produced consumer and luxury items from the shimmering interior of pearl mussels. Now an experience center is to open and address critical issues such as nature conservation and species preservation.
Dog kills two sheep - its owner flees
Sheep are grazing in Chemnitz when a dog runs into the herd. It bites two animals so severely that a vet later kills them. The dog's owner is initially on site, but then runs off.
Greens demand more protection against foot-and-mouth disease
Despite the all-clear, there should be no complacency. The risk of foot-and-mouth disease spreading in Germany is considered to have been averted. Nevertheless, there are calls for better prevention.
20 years of butterfly observation - butterflies are becoming fewer
Thousands of people have been observing butterflies throughout Germany for 20 years for a special project. The results are not always positive. Which species are now only rarely observed?
Kangaroo spotted in Sebnitz - police searching
An unusual animal causes a police operation in Saxon Switzerland. The marsupial was spotted on a road near Sebnitz and hopped away again. Who has seen it?
Abandoned chicks find new home
In wintry temperatures, 145 newly hatched chicks were abandoned in a field near Leipzig. The animal shelter has now found a safe place for them to stay.
Female smooth otter dies at Dresden Zoo
Female smooth otter Diyala had been caring for four young animals at Dresden Zoo for six weeks. Now she has died.
Wildlife protection association rejects the shooting of wolves
How to deal with wolves, which were previously strictly protected, is an ongoing issue in Germany. Hunters and livestock farmers are in favor of regulating the population, while animal welfare associations are against it. What do the figures look like?
Dresden Zoo is delighted about orangutan offspring
Orangutans have been growing up at Dresden Zoo for 100 years. Now there is presumably a Sunday baby among the great apes.
Köpping warns of the spread of bird flu in Saxony
Several new cases of the dangerous animal disease have been confirmed in Bavaria. Minister of State Köpping calls for strict hygiene measures to prevent worse.
145 chicks abandoned - police investigate
In wintry temperatures, 145 newly hatched chicks are discovered in a field near Leipzig. The fluffy animals have since been taken to an animal shelter. The perpetrator is known to the police.
Bird flu in Grimma - district imposes protective measures
Culling, compulsory stabling, restricted zones: Bird flu has hit a poultry farm in Grimma - with consequences for the entire region. Strict measures are in place to prevent further spread.
Outbreak of bird flu in Grimma - around 100 animals killed
Bird flu in Grimma: a poultry farm had to kill around 100 animals. The authorities are now calling for more protective measures.
Cattle herds in Saxony continue to shrink
The number of cattle in Saxony has been falling continuously for years. Now we know how the situation has developed in 2024.
Four wolves provide new data on territories and movement
Four wolves in Saxony provide valuable data for science via transmitter collars. Their movements provide new insights into territorial behavior and family structures.
First storks back - 2024 most successful stork year
The first storks are back - and are having to endure a few frosty nights. This is manageable for the animals, and they also seem to feel at home in Saxony.
Lynx migrates from the Ore Mountains to Thuringia
The lynx is to be reintroduced to Germany. In some federal states, the big cats are being released into the wild - and are going on the move.
Spherical armadillo with offspring at Dresden Zoo
Cute offspring at Dresden Zoo! Baby armadillo Brosche was born in October and is now preparing to move to Karlsruhe.
New case of African swine fever in Saxony
Saxony has been struggling with African swine fever since 2020. However, there has not been a new case for months. Now there is a sick wild boar in the district of Bautzen.
Exotic snake on cycle path in Zittau - investigation
Passers-by stumble across an exotic animal on a cycle path in the morning and call the police. They call in experts to take it into care - but it's too late.
Foot-and-mouth disease: situation in North Saxony eased
Following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Brandenburg, the situation has eased. Events with cloven-hoofed animals may be registered again in North Saxony.
The toads will soon be on their way - but they need help
Some toads leave their winter quarters as early as the beginning of February. To help them survive the dangerous migration, helpers set up protective fences - in some places, more volunteers are needed.
Female lynx Nova migrated from Saxony to Thuringia
A female lynx that was only released into the wild in Saxony last March has migrated to Thuringia. Nova has covered 150 kilometers.
Lion Amaru moves from Leipzig Zoo to Spain
Visitors to Leipzig Zoo will no longer be able to see Amaru the lion. He is heading south. This is just the beginning of big changes for the lion savannah in Leipzig.
Dresden Zoo wants to invest further - inventory of the stock
Off to the scales: during the annual inventory, Dresden Zoo not only counts its animals, but also checks their weight and size. Some inhabitants can only be enticed with a treat.
Changing leaves and newts: Hoyerswerda Zoo takes stock
Every year, zoos count their inhabitants. At the same time, the animals are given a health check.
Foot-and-mouth disease: farmers' association in Saxony concerned
Following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in a herd of buffalo in Brandenburg, the Saxon Farmers' Association is concerned. It advises the consistent application of hygiene measures.
Foot-and-mouth disease - authorities in Saxony vigilant
Following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in a herd of buffalo in Brandenburg, the authorities in Saxony are on alert.
High butter prices - farmers' president calls for more animal husbandry
The number of cattle and pigs in Saxony has recently fallen to its lowest level since 1992. The farmers' association is hoping for a trend reversal and is calling for relief for livestock farmers.
"Magical Tropical Lights" light festival at Leipzig Zoo
When it gets dark, it's time for the "Magical Tropical Lights" at Leipzig Zoo in January and February. The lights will be switched on again from today.
Slight drop in visitor numbers at Leipzig Zoo
After several years of high visitor numbers, 2024 has gone somewhat less well for Leipzig Zoo. The zoo boss blames one event in particular for this.
Conservationists call for a winter bird count
The "Hour of Winter Birds" is probably Germany's largest scientific participatory campaign. Birds are counted and reported for one hour.
African swine fever: no new case for four months
Saxony reports significant progress in the fight against African swine fever. What is the current situation?
Infected lynx Alva will not be captured after all
After a female lynx was released into the wild, an infection with a potentially fatal virus was detected. Alva was to be captured for a check-up - but now she is being left alone.
Money from the federal government for fawn rescue
To prevent fawns from being injured or even killed by combine harvesters, fields are now being scanned with drones before the harvest begins. There is also money from Berlin for this.
142 attacks by wolves counted in Saxony so far
There are currently 37 wolf packs and several pairs living in Saxony. So far this year, 142 attacks on livestock have been recorded. Experts are calling for protective measures.
Leipzig Zoo raises admission prices again
Leipzig Zoo will continue to work on its modernization projects next year. Admission will be more expensive for visitors.
"Dolphins on four legs" - alpacas are in demand
Walks with alpacas are said to have a therapeutic effect. The tourism industry in Saxony has also discovered the fluffy animals for itself. However, certain rules should be observed.
"Dolphins on four legs" - alpacas are in demand
Walks with alpacas are said to have a therapeutic effect. The tourism industry in Saxony has also discovered the fluffy animals for itself. However, certain rules should be observed.
Sloth cub born at Dresden Zoo
This is the tenth offspring for mother sloth Marlies. Her young are developing well. Visitors can best see it during feeding time.
"Feline leukemia" - lynx Alva to be captured
It was only after the female lynx was released into the wild that an infection with the virus, which is fatal in the worst case, was detected. Now a health check is to clarify her infection status. Time is of the essence.
Due to mice infestation: gym in Plauen closed
A gymnasium in Plauen has to close until the end of the year due to a mouse infestation. In January, the city wants to decide how to proceed.
37 wolf packs live in Saxony
In contrast to the nationwide trend, the number of wolf packs living in Saxony is decreasing slightly.
First salmon returns to Saxony
The "king of fish" has returned to Saxony. However, the rise of the salmon has once again started late. Why?
Aged golden eagle dies at Hoyerswerda Zoo
When keepers look after their charges for a long time, a special bond is formed. That is why the mourning for a female eagle at Hoyerswerda Zoo is particularly great. Tschari lived here for 34 years.
Lynx Anton hit and killed in the Westerzgebirge mountains
Anton the lynx, who was released into the wild in the Westerzgebirge at the end of August, is dead. He was probably hit by a truck.