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Leipzig Zoo Director Jörg Junhold is disappointed with the Saxon state government’s decision that zoos and animal parks must also close from Monday until the end of November. Zoo hygiene concepts have proven their worth in many places since they reopened in May, Junhold says.
In this tense social situation, zoos could offer a safe place to relax in urban areas.
However, the focus is on political efforts to protect the population, Junhold stressed. “Of course, we regret that we are not allowed to be a point of contact for our visitors, but we see the need for strict measures to protect everyone in light of the increasing number of infections across the country.”
Visiting the zoo is no different than a walk.
In the run-up to the Saxon state government’s announcement, Görlitz Zoo Director Sven Hammer spoke out against a new closure. In large parks, minimum distances could be observed very well. During this time, the zoo offers children in particular an important recreational function under regulated conditions, says Hammer.
A visit to the zoo is no different from a walk outside!
November hard and I hope for help
Financially, the Leipzig Zoo would now have to prepare for difficult weeks, said director Junhold. Sven Hammer also agreed and demanded that the federal government and the Free State of Saxony agree on effective aid measures for zoological institutions. Almost 300,000 euros were lost in the Görlitz Zoo cash registers after the first closure, Hammer said.
Fortunately, our loyal zoo visitors and supporters helped with more than € 90,000 in donations. We are very thankful for this, because this was the only way we were able to maintain zoo operations in the usual way.
High animal care costs
As a result of the new closure, zoos and animal parks will lose all visitor revenue. “Animal care expenses and employee salaries cannot simply be reduced. Especially in the winter season, the zoo has higher heating and electricity costs, so we need every euro of revenue,” Hammer continued. .
Concerns also in Hoyerswerda
At Hoyerswerda Zoo there is also great concern, especially in economic terms. One is now facing a financial challenge as in the spring, according to a statement. “Unlike other industries, a zoo cannot just be closed.” Donations, animal sponsorship and voucher purchases are highly anticipated.
We are pleased that the Saxon state government recognized the important importance of libraries for families during the closure and made it possible to open them for lending of pure media. However, we regret that this correct assessment did not apply to zoos and animal parks as well. We were hoping to keep the zoo open and offer families variety and relaxation particularly in these challenging times.
According to the resolution of the federal and state governments, public facilities such as theaters, concert halls, museums, zoos and sports facilities will remain closed during the partial closure starting on November 2. Zoos may remain open elsewhere in Germany, for example in Berlin.
