Leipzig celebrates animal anniversary: Leipzig Zoo celebrates its 145th anniversary and commemorates its unique history. What was originally opened in 1878 as the Pfaffendorfer Hof by innkeeper Ernst Pinkert is now a respected animal and nature reserve that attracts visitors from across the country and beyond.
The festivities featured a wealth of activities, including the christening of a young elephant and a lively panel discussion. Amid applause from those in attendance, the little elephant girl, daughter of lead cow Kewa, was christened Zaya - a name that appropriately means "happiness."
A highlight of the anniversary day was the "Zoo Talk," moderated by Roman Knoblauch. The authorized signatory of the zoo, Andrej Synnatzschke, explained the remarkable development of the facility from a regional excursion destination to a national visitor magnet. "Recreation, education and species conservation go hand in hand here," Synnatzschke emphasized. Animal keeper Bettina Kayser and Asia area manager Thomas Günther, both of whom have witnessed much of the zoo's history, shared their experiences and adventures with the guests.
