New Habitat for Sumatra Tigers Now Open at Berlin Zoo

(eap) A new tiger habitat has recently opened at Zoo Berlin, now providing a new home for the two Sumatran tigers “Banyu” and “Luise”. The new enclosure was developed opposite the former tiger facility within the “Realm of the Predators” area, on the site of the former wader meadows. The project has now been completed following a construction period of two years. The new jungle-themed habitat features two outdoor areas with water basins, a stream, a small waterfall, heated resting areas as well as scratching and climbing structures – offering a wide range of enrichment opportunities for the big cats.

The total investment amounted to approximately 7.6 million euros, of which 3.7 million euros were financed by the zoo itself. The State of Berlin contributed 3.9 million euros through funding from the joint federal-state programme “Improvement of Regional Economic Structures” (GRW). The habitat is covered by a net spanning around 2,500 square metres, made up of more than 60 kilometres of stainless-steel wire. At several points, four-centimetre-thick glass panels provide visitors with views into the enclosure.

Native exclusively to the Indonesian island of Sumatra, Sumatran tigers are critically endangered, with only 400 to 600 individuals remaining in the wild. “Particularly for highly endangered species such as the Sumatran tiger, it is essential that zoological gardens collaborate globally and take responsibility for the biodiversity loss caused by humans,” said Zoo and Tierpark Director Dr Andreas Knieriem. “Species such as the European bison and the Przewalski’s horse are impressive examples of how visionary conservation can succeed: these animals were preserved in human care long before it became clear where safe reintroduction into their natural habitats would be possible. Zoos therefore represent an indispensable pillar in the protection of biodiversity.” ■