A new mountain habitat spanning 1,400 metres is under construction at Vienna Zoo and is set to become home to diverse array of Asian mountain-dwelling animals.

Vienna, Austria -April 18, 2024

Amidst the lush landscapes of Vienna Zoo, a remarkable endeavor is underway as construction progresses on a high mountain habitat. Months of meticulous planning and effort have culminated in the transportation of truckloads of natural rocks to the site, laying the foundation for the next exciting attraction.

Spanning 1,400 square meters, the new facility is set to become home to a diverse array of Asian mountain-dwelling animals. According to Vienna Zoo Director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck, the former habitats of the Himalayan tahrs and the mane-springer Barbary macaques have been merged to create a habitat ideally suited for mountain-dwelling species.

Both species are native to the Himalayan region, renowned for their sure-footedness on steep rock cliffs. Accordingly, the habitat at the zoo is being designed to replicate their natural environment. Over the coming months, the natural rocks, some weighing up to six tons, will be supplemented with artificial rocks to create a realistic mountain landscape.

Visitors to the zoo will have the opportunity to observe the animals climbing and exploring the habitat from vantage points across a new trench, offering unobstructed views of the majestic creatures in their element.

Weather permitting, the habitat is scheduled to open in August, with the tahrs being the first to inhabit the space before the arrival of the golden takins.