Schwerin zoo director fights passionately for species protection!

Schwerin zoo director fights passionately for species protection!

In the world of zoological institutions, the Schwerin Zoo stands out under the leadership of zoo director Dr. Tim Schikora particularly stands out. At the recent annual meeting of the Association of Zoological Gardens (VdZ), Schikora was re-elected to the board and will remain treasurer of the association for another three years. This re-election is not only a personal success for Schikora, but also underlines the ongoing importance of the VdZ's political work in species protection. The VdZ, as the leading association of scientifically managed zoological gardens in German-speaking countries, is committed to preserving biological diversity. Over 42 million people visit its 71 member institutions in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Spain every year.

The Schwerin Zoo itself has made a name for itself as a species conservation zoo that takes intensive care of keeping and breeding endangered species. Around 2,000 animals of more than 150 species live here, including impressive species such as Asiatic lions and southern white rhinos. Particularly worth mentioning are the conservation programs for white-naped cranes, giant otters and swallow parakeets, which not only provide insights into the wonderful wildlife, but also make an important contribution to global species conservation.

Species protection as a central concern

Species protection is an issue that is not only on the agenda in Schwerin. The WWF has also taken on this topic and is committed to the preservation of endangered animal species with numerous projects around the world. As the WWF notes, many species are already threatened with extinction and need urgent help.

Through conscious breeding and conservation programs, zoos not only want to provide information about animals, but also directly contribute to the protection of the species. In connection with species protection, many zoos, including Schwerin Zoo, actively work with political institutions and other organizations. This collaboration is crucial in order to fulfill the social mission of preserving biological diversity, which the VdZ pursues.

Why zoos are important

At a time when biodiversity is declining sharply, zoological gardens are more than just animal parks. They play a key role in global environmental protection. The VdZ acts as an important contact for politics, media and civil society. This role is even more important because by visiting zoos, many people develop an awareness of species conservation and learn how they can contribute to a better coexistence with animals simply by making small changes to their lifestyle.

Schwerin Zoo is not the only actor. As the reports show, more and more institutions are committed to a common goal: to promote the protection and preservation of our biological diversity. The challenges are great, but with good cooperation and a clear vision a positive difference can be made.

For our readers in Cologne, this means that a visit to the zoo is not only an entertaining experience, but also an opportunity to become part of a larger movement that is committed to protecting our earth and its fascinating inhabitants. In view of these important topics, it is to be hoped that even more people will be made aware of the concerns of species protection.

Further information about the important work to conserve biodiversity can be found in the reports of the Baltic Sea newspaper, des WWF and des Berlin Zoo read up.