Vienna, Austria - August 01, 2024

Tiergarten Zoo's oldest inhabitants, the Seychelles giant tortoises, have moved to a new residence outside the zoo gates. A dedicated desert house now serves as their sanctuary, offering ideal conditions for these endangered reptiles, some of which are estimated to be 120 and 70 years old.

The tortoises, nearly wiped out in the wild by sailors centuries ago, now enjoy a sprawling 270 m² outdoor enclosure. This space includes sunny and shaded areas, varied natural soil structures, natural plantings, and multiple feeding stations. A large water basin with a shallow shore zone allows the tortoises to cool off and relax.

"The new environment is designed to mimic their natural habitat," explains zoo director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck. "A rock niche made of lava stones provides shelter from rain or extreme heat, and can even be heated, extending their outdoor stay into the autumn transition."

The tortoises can access an indoor enclosure through a ramp, complete with a water area. This space, housed in a glasshouse built in 1904, offers ample natural light and a perfect setting for these venerable creatures.

"This move not only enhances the welfare of our tortoises but also enriches visitor experiences," notes Hering-Hagenbeck. The desert house is now included in the zoo's annual pass, with a new combination ticket allowing day visitors to explore both the zoo and the desert house, home to various desert-dwelling species.

Operated jointly with the Austrian Federal Gardens since 2003, the desert house continues to be a testament to conservation efforts and animal welfare, supporting diverse habitats and species beyond the Seychelles giant tortoises.