Zurich Zoo announces species realignment through 2030

Zurich Zoo has unveiled a strategic plan to restructure its animal population by 2030, shifting its focus toward endangered species and animals of high research value. Director Severin Dressen explained that the zoo aims to optimize its space to support biodiversity and scientific study.

As part of this transition, several well-known animals will be relocated. Bactrian camels are expected to move to a camel farm in Olmerswil, making room for Golden Takins from the Himalayas. Seals will also be transferred due to outdated facilities and their non-endangered status, with a threatened seal species expected to arrive in their place. Additionally, the zoo plans to end the long-term keeping of King Penguins, as the facility's planned 2.5-hectare marine coast habitat cannot meet the specific cooling requirements necessary for Antarctic species.

Despite these changes, the zoo's most famous large mammals—including elephants, rhinoceroses, gorillas, tigers, and giraffes—will remain, as they are already classified as endangered species.