Crisis in Germany's Zoos: Unable to Keep Animals Warm

The rise in energy prices and overall inflation have impacted zoos in Germany, forcing some to implement additional savings measures while others have had to announce fundraising campaigns to ensure warmth for the animals residing there. The situation has deteriorated to the point where many residents of the country who own pets have begun to relinquish them to special centers. This is reported by RIA Novosti.

In the current crisis, the Dresden Zoo has been hit the hardest. As of November 1, the zoo had to close its terrarium due to "massive" heating costs. "The consolation is that some reptiles from the terrarium will be saved, as they will be transferred to the new home of the orangutans. Those species that cannot stay with us in the zoo will be relocated to other places," stated representatives from an animal rights organization.

According to the representatives, they have had to part ways with 10 types of reptiles and about 25 types of fish. "All animals already have new caretakers," the source said, adding that the new owners are located not only in Germany but also in other EU countries.

Two zoos in Berlin, including the oldest zoo in Germany, as well as the city's aquarium, have announced fundraising efforts ahead of winter. "The increase in energy costs is indeed a serious problem for the Berlin Zoo, the Berlin-Friedrichsfelde Zoo, and the aquarium," said spokesperson Svenja Eisenbart.

The zoos' websites regularly publish reports that soon giraffes, hippos, and other animals are facing significant danger of freezing. "The hippos can only survive in the aquarium for a short time at temperatures below 17 degrees," Eisenbart explained, emphasizing that it is also not feasible to keep temperatures low for giraffes for extended periods.

The issue of maintaining water temperature is also critical for the aquarium. "Despite their thick skin, most of the animals in the aquarium need warm water all year round. We are doing everything to ensure that clownfish, crocodiles, and other creatures do not freeze even during these difficult times," she stated.