The New Animal Species for Herberstein

They came from an illegal private collection in Carinthia, were seized by the local veterinary officer, and brought to Herberstein. At this popular tourist destination, they are listed as the 85th animal species. Their age is unknown—they are estimated to be about 3 years old—and it is believed that they are brothers.

Within 8 weeks, a species-appropriate enclosure was built. From a climbing frame to a sleeping den, a watering hole, trees, and a foraging box—the new home for these animals, which belong to the family of small bears, is equipped with numerous enrichment opportunities.

Raccoons have been on the EU list of invasive species since 2014. “An invasive species is non-native; it can become established, spread uncontrollably, and thereby displace native species,” explains Dr. Reinhard Pichler, the zoo’s director of zoology and a veterinarian. For this reason, keeping them in zoos is subject to strict regulations, and private ownership is prohibited.

These crepuscular and nocturnal animals live next to the bison enclosure; they can be visited daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will add another attraction to the monthly moonlight tours. The next tours are scheduled for Tuesday, October 19, and Wednesday, October 20, 2021, both at 7 p.m. — there are still spots available.