Alpenzoo Innsbruck

The Alpenzoo Innsbruck is Europe’s tallest zoo (750 m).This themed alpine wildlife zoo contains a unique collection of over 150 animal species with 2000 creatures from the entire Alpine region, covering an area of around 10 hectares (now only 5 hectares have been created, the zoo was enlarged in 2022).

Location and History

The Alpenzoo Innsbruck is located on the Nordkette hill, below the Hungerburg in the Hötting area, and close to the Weiherburg. It is easily accessible by public transportation, such as the Hungerburgbahn or the bus line W, or by car. The zoo covers an area of around 10 hectares, although only 5 hectares have been developed so far. The zoo was enlarged in 2022 to accommodate more animals and visitors.

The zoo was founded on September 22, 1962 by Austrian naturalist Hans Psenner, who had a vision of creating a zoo that would preserve and display the wildlife of the Alps. Psenner was also instrumental in the reintroduction of endangered species, such as the bearded vulture, the Alpine ibex, and the northern bald ibis, into the wild. Thanks to his efforts, the Alpenzoo Innsbruck became a leader in conservation and research of Alpine animals.

The zoo is a non-profit organization, and the majority of its revenue comes from admission prices, although it also receives subsidies from the city of Innsbruck and the Tyrol government. The ‘Freunde des Alpenzoo’ society, sponsors, and animal adopters also support the zoo financially.

Attractions and Exhibits

One of the most striking features of the Alpenzoo Innsbruck is its wooden pavilion, which was unveiled in August 2017. The pavilion, which is shaped like a snail, provides information about forestry and the wood industry in the Alps. The pavilion was created in partnership with proHolz Tyrol, and the building’s design was the result of a competition for students studying design and architecture in the area. The pavilion is entirely built of wood and blends in with the natural surroundings.

Another attraction that makes the Alpenzoo Innsbruck stand out is its appearance on the collectable 0 Euro bank note, which was issued in 2019 to commemorate the zoo’s 57th anniversary. The bank note features three of the zoo’s most famous animals: the bearded vulture, the lynx, and the Alpine ibex. The bank note is a souvenir that can be purchased at the zoo’s gift shop or online.

The main attraction of the zoo, of course, is its animals. The zoo houses over 2000 creatures from 150 different species, including 20 mammals (of the 80 mammal species found in the Alps), 60 bird species, 11 reptile species, and 6 amphibian species, as well as nearly all of the fish species found in the Alps. The Alpenzoo Innsbruck is the world’s only zoo that houses a wallcreeper, a small bird that lives on rocky cliffs and has a distinctive red wing patch.

The zoo is built on the side of a mountain, with several walkways for exploring the park and seeing the animals. The huge Alpine creatures, such as bears, wolves, moose, and bison, are the zoo’s major draw. They live in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats, with rocks, trees, and water features. Visitors can observe them from various viewpoints and learn more about their behavior and ecology.

Birds of prey are another prominent element of the zoo, with some species rarely seen in zoos, such as northern bald ibises, which can be viewed in a large aviary designed specifically for the endangered birds. There is also the Innergschlöß, where various species, including the bearded vulture, can be spotted. The bearded vulture is the largest bird of prey in the Alps and has a wingspan of up to 2.8 meters. The zoo has successfully bred and released several bearded vultures into the wild, contributing to the conservation of this magnificent species.

The zoo also features a small display farm to demonstrate the variety of Alpine cattle. Many different types of fowls, sheep, cattle, pigs, and goats can be seen and petted. Some of these breeds are historic varieties developed to meet the specific needs of small-scale farming in the Alps’ diverse microclimates. They are an important part of the cultural heritage and biodiversity of the region.

There are also six large terrariums built to house the zoo’s reptile species, such as snakes, lizards, and turtles, as well as an aqua-terrarium for amphibians, such as frogs, salamanders, and newts. These animals are often overlooked or feared, but they play a vital role in the ecosystem and have fascinating adaptations and behaviors.

The Alpenzoo Innsbruck has the world’s largest fresh water aquarium, with 17 tanks ranging in size from 80 to 14,000 liters. More than 50 Alpine fish species can be found there, with some of them being very rare or endangered. The aquariums reproduce a variety of habitats, such as a cold Alpine river, a small pond, a lake, and the Danube’s living conditions. The zoo is well known internationally for its breeding program for several rare Alpine fish species, such as the Danube salmon, the marble trout, and the European bullhead.

Education and Services

The Alpenzoo Innsbruck offers an educational section that provides experiential animal learning for groups of different ages. Teachers and biologists are among the professionals hired to teach. The zoo also organizes guided tours, workshops, lectures, and special events throughout the year. The zoo’s website and social media channels provide updates and information about the zoo’s activities and news.

The majority of the areas are wheelchair accessible, although some of the walkways are rather steep. On-site dining options include the ANIMAHL – Bistro im Zoo, which serves daily dishes and a wide range of drinks, and the Café and Restaurant “Weiherburg,” which is more casual. Both have indoor and outdoor seating. There is a large playground as well as a smaller one for younger children. The zoo also has a gift shop that sells souvenirs, books, toys, and other items related to the zoo and its animals.

Innsbruck, Austria