The rapidly rising energy prices are putting Vienna’s zoos, such as Schönbrunn and the Haus des Meeres, under pressure. They hope for donations, animal sponsorships and many visitors.
Pandemic (closing days), gas crisis and a surprising conversion are causing financial problems for the Haus des Meeres. The tropical house has to be renewed because the wooden bridges and paneling have become rotten. Cost point according to the first estimate: 750,000 euros. Expensive electricity is also an enormous burden. Enormous costs Every household is currently feeling this in their wallets. At the Mariahilfer Terra-Aqua-Zoo with its huge aquariums and subtropically heated zones, this is a completely different dimension. “We now have energy costs of 1,000 euros per day,” explains zoo director Michael Mitic. Donations of all kinds, such as those from Essenz pharmacies over 5,000 euros, are very welcome and may be a question of survival for the popular zoo, which gets by without public funds. Only Corona aid was applied for, but a large amount is still outstanding. Mitic relies on the many loyal visitors. Because every ticket purchase contributes to the preservation of the facility. “The admission prices will not be increased,” promises the director. “Electricity costs have doubled” Scene change to Schönbrunn. Here, too, the dilemma: “Electricity costs have doubled. This is a huge additional burden. We have 50 different animal houses, all of which require electricity,” explains zoo spokeswoman Corinna Bürgmann. “Energy guzzlers” are all tanks with water treatment. In summer it is about cooling systems, for example for the penguins. Bürgmann: “It is difficult for us to save electricity in these areas. We make sure to use energy-efficient devices in order to avoid wasting energy as much as possible.” Animal sponsorship as supportOne way of helping is by sponsoring an animal. Packages are available from five euros a month. From the giraffe girl “Amari” to the green tree lizard or the maned goose – many of the crowd’s favorites are waiting for generous helpers (for their species).
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