Germany: Tierpark Berlin Announces Start of Construction for New Giraffe Trail

Construction work is still underway at Tierpark Berlin on one of the most modern elephant houses in Europe (cf. EAP 6/2020). In the course of the conversion, an African savannah landscape is being created adjoining this, which will cover around 37,000 square meters when completed and will house giraffes, zebras and antelopes. The conversion of the giraffe enclosure is taking place as part of a long-planned realignment of the Tierpark Berlin. In the future, the animals are to be seen according to geographic aspects. Now, construction has begun on a giraffe path about 120 meters long and 30 meters wide. Here, visitors will be able to get up close to the largest land mammals on earth via this wooden walkway. “We are delighted to open a new milestone at Tierpark Berlin in the spring, which will allow people interested in animals and species conservation to experience the fascinating inhabitants of the African savannah at eye level,” says Dr. Andreas Knieriem, director of Tierpark Berlin and Berlin Zoo.

Halfway along the path, guests will reach a viewing area about 2.20 meters above the grounds, from which they can observe the Rothschild giraffes. A very special experience will be available in a secluded area: At certain times, guests will be able to feed the giraffes under guidance. To make the path fully accessible to wheelchair users, the giraffe walkway will have a maximum gradient of three percent, explains project manager Benjamin Grabherr. If everything stays on schedule, the African Savannah landscape will open in spring 2023. (eap)