Crazy trainee from Herford visits 64 zoos in one year!

Crazy trainee from Herford visits 64 zoos in one year!

Anyone who thinks that a zoo is just a place to marvel and admire animals can prepare themselves for wonderful stories. One such case is the impressive passion of Marvin Schillberg, a zoo trainee at Herford Zoo, who made a whopping 64 zoo visits in Europe last year. His enthusiasm for animals is not just a hobby, but a real matter of the heart. He also shares it with his partner, with whom he had his first date at Wuppertal Zoo. You could say that the basis for a really good relationship has been laid! Westfalen-Blatt reports on his adventurous travels.

The diversity of European zoos is impressive. In 2023, some zoos were recognized as the best in Europe. Above all, the **Vienna Zoo**, which is located in the majestic Schönbrunn Palace and impresses with over 600 animal species, including pandas. I can imagine that one or two animal lovers would also like to stop by there. Especially since it opened in 1752, it has made a name for itself as the oldest zoo in Europe, which boasts state-of-the-art living conditions for the animals. European Cities with Kids has taken an intensive look at the best zoos that are important not only for families and animal lovers, but also for education and species conservation.

Zoo and species protection

The role of zoos goes far beyond simply exhibiting animals. The EU is committed to preserving biodiversity with various guidelines that also directly affect the operation and sustainable use of zoos. The so-called Zoos Directive (#1999/22/EC) aims to protect wild animals and strengthen the important role of zoos in species protection. A truly valuable concern that puts the whole usefulness of a visit to the zoo in a different light. European Union has initiated various measures for this purpose.

Attention is paid to the annual evaluations of this directive, which have examined the extent to which implementation in the Member States is effective. Many zoos are now actively involved in conservation programs and are continually improving their practices to meet the original mission of biodiversity conservation. This also means that regular training for zoo employees takes place, which is essential given the importance of training for the area of ​​responsibility.

Without a doubt, zoos are a valuable resource in today's society. They not only create awareness about endangered animal species, but also contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. Marvin Schillberg and his extensive experience in various zoos are an excellent example of how much joy and responsibility there is in dealing with our animal friends. It will be exciting to see what other great stories he will bring back from the next zoo!