Tierpark Hagenbeck Presents New Leopard Enclosure and Cubs
The young North Chinese leopards curiously explore the newly redesigned enclosure at Tierpark Hagenbeck.
© Photo: Carlotta Wallraff
(eap) Three North Chinese leopard cubs were presented to the public for the first time last week at Tierpark Hagenbeck in Hamburg, Germany. The two males and one female were born in early August and have now begun exploring the redesigned leopard enclosure. Over the past few years, the enclosure has been extensively expanded and further adapted to the animals’ needs. In addition to providing more space, it features new climbing structures and hiding places designed to encourage the leopards’ natural behaviour.
“The new enclosure has turned out wonderfully. Not only have we created more space, but also an environment in which the animals can move around and engage in activities that are even more in line with their natural behaviour. This is an important step towards improving animal welfare and a clear demonstration of our commitment to species conservation,” explains Walter Wolters, Managing Director of Tierpark Hagenbeck.
The newborn cubs are also particularly significant for species conservation. As coordinator of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for the North Chinese leopard, Hagenbeck bears special responsibility for the preservation of this rare subspecies. The programme aims to establish a genetically diverse and stable reserve population in the long term through coordinated breeding efforts at zoological institutions. Tierpark Hagenbeck has been involved in the conservation breeding of North Chinese leopards for many years. The expansion and modernisation of the enclosure are intended to create optimal conditions for these efforts.
The project was funded by the Hagenbeck Foundation. “The Hagenbeck Foundation is deeply committed to preserving Tierpark Hagenbeck, protecting endangered species and promoting modern animal husbandry. We are therefore proud to have made the new leopard enclosure possible through donations and bequests from supporters of Hagenbeck,” emphasises Cord Crasselt, Member of the Board of the Hagenbeck Foundation. ■
