In mid-February—delayed due to the coronavirus—the young big cats were moved from the OPEL Zoo in Hesse to Herberstein. Tulani (Serenity), Khan (The Rich One), Thembo (Hope), Bakari (Success), and Tayo (Joy of Life)—these are the names of the cheetahs that have found their new home in Eastern Styria.
There, they’ll find not only an innovative cheetah care program—including training and feedings with a prey simulator—but also a 4,000 m² enclosure. “Thanks to the generous space, we were able to take in all the littermates so the group could stay together,” explains Reinhard Pichler, veterinarian and zoological director.
Two sponsors were also present during the first tour of the outdoor enclosure: GRAWE Board Member Georg Schneider and Regional Director Anton Genseberger. “At the moment, a large part of our daily lives has shifted to the digital and virtual world, which is why it’s a special joy right now to enjoy a day at Tierwelt Herberstein. Tierwelt not only offers the opportunity to spend a day with family and friends, but also fulfills a very important educational mission. Bringing children closer to the natural world of animals is especially important, because only topics that we experience and understand can truly hold significance in our lives. A commitment to the local community and fostering a sense of togetherness are deeply rooted in both GRAWE and Tierwelt, and are particularly important right now and for the future. As part of our partnership, we are delighted to sponsor Tayo and thereby contribute to biodiversity. “We wish our sponsored animal and his brothers all the best for the future!” said GRAWE Board Member Georg Schneider. Doris Wolkner-Steinberger, Director of Tierwelt, added: “I am extremely pleased that we were able to secure GRAWE as a strong partner for the Styrian State Zoo.”
The big cat quintet is already visible to visitors and can be admired Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (FFP-2 masks are required for visitors ages 14 and older, in accordance with regulations).
