Leipzig's zoo becomes a water world: Tierra del Fuego opens in 2026!

Leipzig's zoo becomes a water world: Tierra del Fuego opens in 2026!

A lot is happening in the heart of Leipzig Zoo. A new water world called “Tierra del Fuego” is being created here, which will soon be home to seals and penguins. This construction site creates excitement and anticipation among visitors because it will not only be a real eye-catcher, but also an experience for young and old. Since the official start of construction in May 2021, which was announced by zoo director Prof. Jörg Junhold, 30 million euros have been invested to realize this ambitious project. The opening is planned for 2026, in keeping with the zoo's 150th birthday two years later.

The water world “Tierra del Fuego” will play an important role in species protection. Here the animals are supposed to act as ambassadors for their fellow species in nature. The overall project is part of a larger master plan that has continuously modernized the zoo since 2000 and redesigned numerous old facilities. It is noteworthy that around 70% of the financing came from income from the zoo itself as well as from the support association and the Free State of Saxony, while only 30% comes from the city's coffers. MDR.de reports that ...

Construction progress and outlook

The developments in Leipzig are part of a larger concept. Since 2001, the zoo has already implemented impressive projects such as the lion savannah, tiger taiga and Gondwanaland. Each of these projects places great emphasis on species-appropriate enclosure design, professional animal husbandry and knowledge transfer. Zoo-Leipzig.de reports that ...

The animals in Tierra del Fuego

Future residents will not be left out in “Tierra del Fuego” either: In addition to the California sea lions, which already live in the zoo and are waiting for their new surroundings, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, sea pelicans and pudus will also move in. This biodiversity promises a varied and educational experience for visitors who can look forward to the new underwater tunnel.

As part of the extensive renovation work, the old terrarium will also be renovated and a new Asian island world will be created, which will further enrich the existing offering. The goal is to have all renovations completed by the zoo's 150th birthday in 2028. With the large amount of 245 million euros invested, the zoo has waited three decades to finally get to this point and is rated accordingly highly by the almost 41 million visitors it has attracted over the last 25 years.

The coming years promise great progress at Leipzig Zoo. It remains to be hoped that “Tierra del Fuego” will be the next big crowd puller, not only providing exciting insights, but also raising awareness of species protection and the preservation of endangered species.