Germany: First Federal States Give Permission for Zoos & Animal Parks to Reopen Outdoor Areas

Zoos and animal parks in the German federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate have already been allowed to reopen their outdoor areas since March 1^st, and Rostock Zoo has announced to welcome visitors back again from Monday, March 8^th – of course in compliance with established corona protection measures and comprehensive hygiene concepts.

March 8^th is the nationwide key date for the controlled reopening of museums, galleries, zoological and botanical gardens – however, depending on a stable or declining “seven-day-incidence” in the respective region. Another requirement will be that guests book a fixed time slot for their visit in advance. In case the incidence of infection in the respective region increases again, new closures of the facilities can be ordered with immediate effect.

Crucial for further relaxations of the current lockdown will also be the nationwide offer of quick tests: From March 8^th, every German citizen should have the opportunity to use one free Covid-19 quick test per week. However, there is still no tangible opening date for amusement parks, swimming pools and indoor parks. The German Chancellor and the Ministers of the German Federal States plan to discuss a possible reopening strategy for the leisure, tourism and hospitality sector during their next conference on March 22^nd. Unfortunately, there is still a big question mark behind a possible start of the season in time for this year’s Easter vacations. (eap)