Leipzig celebrates animal anniversary: Leipzig Zoo celebrates its 145th anniversary and commemorates its unique history. What was originally opened in 1878 as the Pfaffendorfer Hof by innkeeper Ernst Pinkert is now a respected animal and nature reserve that attracts visitors from across the country and beyond.
The festivities featured a wealth of activities, including the christening of a young elephant and a lively panel discussion. Amid applause from those in attendance, the little elephant girl, daughter of lead cow Kewa, was christened Zaya - a name that appropriately means "happiness."
A highlight of the anniversary day was the "Zoo Talk," moderated by Roman Knoblauch. The authorized signatory of the zoo, Andrej Synnatzschke, explained the remarkable development of the facility from a regional excursion destination to a national visitor magnet. "Recreation, education and species conservation go hand in hand here," Synnatzschke emphasized. Animal keeper Bettina Kayser and Asia area manager Thomas Günther, both of whom have witnessed much of the zoo's history, shared their experiences and adventures with the guests.
After the christening, Sparkasse Leipzig, a gold sponsor of the zoo, became Zaya's first sponsor. Andreas Nüdling, a member of Sparkasse Leipzig's board of directors, expressed his enthusiasm for the zoo's commitment and emphasized his institution's pleasure in sponsoring Zaya.
Leipzig's cultural mayor and zoo supervisory board chairwoman Dr. Skadi Jennicke also sent her congratulations and underscored the zoo's importance as a modern center for species conservation and education. She also emphasized the Zoo's exciting 145-year history and praised its consistent development, especially with regard to the future "Discoverer's House Ark," which will open in July.
Thus, Leipzig Zoo continues its commitment to being an important part of the community and continuing its mission to preserve endangered species and habitats. Happy Birthday, Zoo Leipzig and congratulations, little Zaya!
Source: Press Release Zoo Leipzig
