The latest developments regarding the coronavirus and the associated legal requirements also affect the Styrian State Zoo.

Tierwelt Herberstein will remain open on March 14 and 15, subject to certain restrictions . Including staff, a maximum of 500 people are permitted on the entire grounds, including the zoo and the garden castle. “Our ticketing system allows us to verify this at any time. For example, if two guests leave the zoo, two visitors can re-enter the grounds,” explains Tierwelt Director Doris Wolkner-Steinberger, outlining the procedure for ensuring compliance with legal guidelines. Nevertheless, it is recommended that zoo visitors check the current situation by calling the hotline at 03176 80777 before their planned visit.

To prevent crowds from gathering in front of the enclosures, there will be no guided feedings on March 14 and 15 as a precautionary measure. Guided tours and special programs, such as VIP tours or the “Try Your Hand at Being a Zookeeper” experience, are also currently on hold. “Otherwise, Tierwelt is open to visitors throughout the entire grounds. Two dining venues—the Simbawelt family restaurant and the Zooschenke—are also open as usual for our guests,” said Tierwelt Managing Director Doris Wolkner-Steinberger, who is working in close coordination with the supervisory board and the owner’s representative.

Effective March 16, 2020, the zoo is closed by order of the authorities until further notice. All events scheduled to take place on the zoo grounds through April 3 are canceled.