Activists demand closure: Wilhelma animal prisons?

Activists demand closure: Wilhelma animal prisons?

Things are boiling in Stuttgart: PETA activists gathered in front of the Wilhelma on Saturday afternoon to demonstrate against the killing of healthy animals in zoos. Under the motto “Only freedom is species-appropriate,” around a dozen members wore animal masks and held signs with provocative messages such as “Zoos kill healthy animals.” During extensive research last year, Peta documented behavioral disorders in various animal species in Wilhelma. The organization claims that it has been receiving whistleblower reports about abuses in the facility for years.

According to observations, animals such as reptiles and great apes show worrying behavioral problems, while elephants suffer from inadequate housing conditions. The flamingos, which have been rendered unable to fly, are particularly criticized. In January 2025, a criminal complaint was filed against Wilhelma with the Stuttgart public prosecutor's office.

Pros and Cons – The zoo discussion in detail

While Peta vehemently advocates closing the zoos, which can only cause discomfort for wild animals, the director of Wilhelma, Thomas Kölpin, sees it completely differently. He emphasizes that modern zoos, including Wilhelma, position themselves as species conservation centers. “This is about much more than just showing off,” says Kölpin. The biologist, who has been at the helm of Wilhelma since 2014, appeals for zoos to make an important contribution to preserving biodiversity through their investments in species protection projects.

In order to raise awareness of endangered species, Wilhelma invested over one million euros in around 40 species protection projects worldwide in 2023. Programs for children and young people are also offered here to raise awareness of nature conservation in the next generation. These activities are part of the bigger picture that gives zoos an educational mission.

The future of zoos

However, the discussion about the raison d'être of zoos is far-reaching and controversial. Critics such as Peta argue that animals in captivity often suffer from mental illness, while the Association of Zoological Gardens argues that many visitors visit zoos annually. According to a survey before the corona pandemic, three out of four families visited a zoo at least once a year. This suggests a strong public interest.

Although changes in animal husbandry have taken place, the prevailing view has not convinced everyone. Some zoos invest considerable sums in modernizing their facilities in order to create living conditions suitable for animals. But the role of zoos as educational institutions is still hotly debated. Some studies show an increase in knowledge among visitors, while others conclude that the animals' natural habitat cannot be replaced.

The question remains: Can zoos continue to be considered modern facilities, or should alternative models with more species-appropriate keeping conditions, such as in outdoor enclosures, be more strongly promoted? This debate will probably keep us busy for a while.

Further information on the allegations and Wilhelma's statement can be found in the reports from Stuttgart News, the pro and con arguments South Courier as well as comprehensive analyzes of the future of zoos SWR.