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Conservation sanctuary for endangered species: the newly constructed rhinoceros tower at Berlin Zoo

New architectural marvel at Berlin Zoo: Awe-inspiring rhino haven debuts since June 2023.

Berlin Zoo's latest attraction - a rhino-shaped pagoda for endangered species preservation
Berlin Zoo's latest attraction - a rhino-shaped pagoda for endangered species preservation

Conservation sanctuary for endangered species: the newly constructed rhinoceros tower at Berlin Zoo

The New York Post reports that the Berlin Zoo has recently completed a major construction project with the opening of its new rhino news in June 2023. The new facility, costing a total of 23 million euros, is a significant step in the zoo's mission to advance species conservation and raise public awareness of biodiversity loss. Covering approximately 14,000 square meters, the enclosure houses white rhinos, tapirs, and peccaries. The centerpiece of the new enclosure is a 25-meter-high Indian pagoda, reminiscent of an "Elephant Pagoda" erected in 1873 and destroyed during World War II. The design of the pagoda and the enclosure as a whole is meant to recall the threatened loss of biodiversity, as shown by the rhinos' conservation history. After being almost extinct at the beginning of the 20th century, with fewer than 200 animals in the natural habitat, extraordinary conservation measures have saved the white rhino and preserved an entire ecosystem. The new building meets the high demands of modern animal husbandry, including special floor coverings for white rhinos. Inside the new building, the animals have enlarged facilities with natural soil, a bathing pond, and a UV-transparent foil roof. White rhinos even have a "rhino wellness landscape" at their disposal, which includes five bathing pools and three mud holes with showers. Dr. Andreas Knieriem, a zoo representative, explained that the rhino pagoda is a significant step in the zoo and animal park's mission to advance species conservation. The groundbreaking for the project was at the end of 2021, and the shell was completed in May 2022. After another year of construction, the enclosure was opened. The construction of the new rhino enclosure is part of a series of projects at the Berlin Zoo and Tierpark that appeal to species conservation. Other new construction projects include new homes for predators, rhinos, and elephants. The new enclosure is located near the Zoological Garden station and is visible from afar. The new rhino enclosure at the Berlin Zoo is not just a building; it's a testament to the power of conservation efforts. The positive impact of these measures on many other, lesser-known animal and plant species serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our natural world. The white rhino, as an "umbrella species," is a prime example of this interconnectedness, as its conservation benefits a multitude of other species. The opening of the new rhino enclosure marks a milestone in the Berlin Zoo's commitment to conservation and education. As visitors explore the enclosure, they will not only witness the wonder of these majestic creatures but also gain a deeper understanding of the importance of biodiversity and the role they can play in preserving it.

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