Cologne, August 27, 2026. New arrivals among the bearded monkeys at the Cologne Zoo’s Rainforest House: Eight months ago, 16-year-old “Indira” gave birth to a female baby here. “Indira’s” first offspring was named “Priya” by the zookeepers, a name that means “love” or “dear one.” Mother “Indira” arrived in Cologne from Great Britain in late 2023. The father is the 15-year-old “Obi,” who came to the Rhine from the Lisbon Zoo.

The Cologne mandrill group now comprises six animals in the breeding group. In addition to “Obi,” “Indira,” and the new baby, the enclosure is also home to 17-year-old “Medini,” her four-year-old daughter “Mayuri,” and her two-year-old son “Paddy.” In addition, there is a group of four single males that is only temporarily residing at the Cologne Zoo. “It is very gratifying that ‘Indira,’ who had not yet had any offspring, has given birth here in Cologne. Barbary macaques are critically endangered. It is important that ‘Indira’ and her infant help ensure a stable reserve population,” explains Dr. Johanna Rode-White, curator at the Cologne Zoo and head of the European Conservation Program for Barbary macaques.

Cologne Zoo coordinates the conservation breeding program
Bearded monkeys belong to the macaque genus. They are native to southwest India. The species is critically endangered: habitat destruction, poaching, and traffic are taking a heavy toll on it. According to estimates by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), only 2,500 adult animals are believed to remain in their native range. Due to late sexual maturity and long birth intervals, bearded macaques reproduce slowly. As a result, decimated populations unfortunately recover poorly. The Cologne Zoo is particularly committed to the conservation of bearded monkeys, as the zoo has long led the internationally coordinated conservation program for this species.

Bearded macaques live in large groups that consist of a few males and many females in the wild. Their fur is black. Their most distinctive and eponymous feature is the silvery-white mane around their head, cheeks, and chin. With a head-body length of 40 to 60 centimeters, bearded macaques are among the smaller macaques; males weigh between five and 15 kilograms, while females weigh between four and nine kilograms. Bearded macaques feed primarily on fruit. They also eat leaves, buds, insects, and small vertebrates.

Become a sponsor – the zoo’s bearded macaques and many other animals are looking forward to new sponsors. You can sign up easily and conveniently in the online shop at www.koelnerzoo.de – it’s always a “wildly” wonderful idea, even as a gift.

Photos: Rolf Schlosser

Contact for further information:
AG Zoologischer Garten Köln
Christoph Schütt
0221/7785-235
schuett@koelnerzoo.de

Cologne, August 20, 2026. For the first time, the Cologne Zoo is showcasing new arrivals among the New Guinea wallabies, a smaller species of kangaroo native to Papua New Guinea. The lively joey, whose sex has not yet been determined, has been regularly leaving its mother’s pouch for about a week to curiously explore the enclosure.

The 4-year-old father, “Gerry,” and the 3-year-old mother, “Gisela,” are keeping a close watch. They are both from the Czech Republic. Together with their young and other kangaroo species, they live in a new, walk-through enclosure at the Dragon House, which the zoo opened last week as a new attraction. Visitors can stroll leisurely through the kangaroo area, passing by the marsupials and getting up close to the animals while maintaining the necessary respect.

Sturdy little kangaroos, bustling pygmy otters – zoos are committed to conservation

Southern New Guinea wallabies are among the smaller kangaroos. They have a stocky build. As with most kangaroos, their hind legs are significantly longer than their front legs, and their tail is relatively short and sparsely haired. Their fur is dark gray-brown in color, with a significantly lighter underside. These animals primarily inhabit rainforests and mixed rainforest-savanna areas. As strict herbivores, they feed mainly on grasses and leaves. 

The Southern New Guinea Filander is hunted with dogs for its meat. This has led to the disappearance of the animals from southeastern New Guinea, and populations are also declining elsewhere. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) therefore lists the species as “vulnerable.” Zoos are working to protect them through conservation breeding programs, among other efforts. 

Welcome totheDragon House – surrounded by the exotic animals of Southeast Asia

The Dragon House, home to the filanders, is also home to many other Southeast Asian animals in addition to kangaroos: These include Komodo dragons, birds of paradise, tiger pythons, pygmy otters, archerfish, hornbills, and exotic ducks – nowhere else in the Rhineland can you get closer to Southeast Asia. The Komodo dragon enclosure at the Cologne Zoo is one of the largest of its kind in the world and the only one in North Rhine-Westphalia. It has quickly become one of the Cologne Zoo’s biggest attractions,

The Cologne Zoo: Passionate About Animals. Book online starting at 22.50 euros. www.koelnerzoo.de

Photos: Marcel Vogelfänger

Further information:

Christoph Schütt

0221 / 77 85 235

schuett@koelnerzoo.de 

A First for North Rhine-Westphalia: Cologne Zoo Presents Komodo Dragons

Meaningful on Every Level: Spectacular Animal Encounters, a Breeding Facility for Endangered Species, and Space for Education and Research 

Cologne, August 13, 2026. For the second time this summer, the Cologne Zoo has opened a major new attraction. Following the new giraffe enclosure in July, today saw the inauguration of the Dragon House, home to the animals and plants of a Southeast Asian rainforest. Visitors to the Cologne Zoo can immerse themselves in the world of tree kangaroos, birds of paradise, tiger pythons, pygmy otters, and balistars. In a new large-scale exhibit, Komodo dragons – the largest monitor lizards on Earth – are on display for the first time in Cologne and for the first time ever in a zoo in North Rhine-Westphalia. 

One of the largest enclosures for Komodo dragons in the world

Construction took just under 1.5 years. The total cost amounted to approximately 9.8 million euros. The centerpiece of the Dragon House – and the source of its name – is the enclosure for two Komodo dragons: a 14-year-old female – “Tessa” – who recently arrived in Cologne from the Leipzig Zoo, and the four-year-old male “Jiwa” from the Randers Regnskov Zoo in Denmark. In Germany, the Cologne Zoo is the only one – alongside those in Leipzig and Frankfurt am Main – to house these imposing giant lizards, which can grow to more than three meters in length. 

The approximately200m² enclosure for these agile lizards – which are quite dangerous to humans – is safely separated from visitors by glass and is one of the largest of its kind in the world. The approximately 3,000m² exhibition area surrounding it, complete with a waterfall, is designed so that visitors can go on an expedition through a tropical forest via bridges, water features, and winding paths – passing fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Nowhere else in the Rhineland does Southeast Asia feel closer. Several aviaries – such as the one in the entrance area for Asian gallinaceous birds and ducks, as well as the area near the exit housing several extremely rare kangaroos and Asian pygmy otters – round out this new world of discovery. Prof. Theo B. Pagel and Christopher Landsberg, directors of the Cologne Zoo: “We are very pleased to be able to offer so many new highlights in such a large space here. With its rich variety, the Dragon House is one of the most interesting attractions we have to offer.”

The Cologne Zoo has also made significant changes to the backstage areas of the building formerly known as “THE RAINFOREST – The Tropical House.” Below the exhibition area, a breeding station for critically endangered Asian songbirds was created, along with a space for the zoo library and a training room for educational and university courses. The renovation and redesign followed a fire at the building in March 2022. After an initial renovation and reopening, the multi-phase construction project for a complete redesign began in 2024, which also included state-of-the-art energy-efficiency upgrades such as a new heating system, insulation, and a photovoltaic system. 

In parallel with the newly established breeding station in Cologne, the zoo is supporting the construction of a breeding station on the Indonesian island of Java with a contribution of 20,000 euros. Previously, the zoo, in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), had already founded the Center for Species Survival, which is also dedicated to the conservation of these species in the wild. Environmental education is also a priority. In two information rooms currently under construction in the Dragon House, the zoo will vividly illustrate the threats facing songbirds and explain the work of its species conservation center. With this comprehensive approach to education, research, and reintroduction, Cologne Zoo is taking on an international leading role in the protection of Asian songbirds – in line with the One-Plan Approach – which are suffering massive habitat loss in their native habitats or are being illegally captured and ending up in the animal trade.  

Robert Schallehn, recently elected as the new Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Cologne Zoo, said: “The building is a symbol of what modern, scientifically managed zoos stand for today: It offers exciting, up-close animal experiences that captivate people and make them wiser. Furthermore, ‘Backstage’ has created additional space for the zoo’s vital conservation and educational activities – all based on modern environmental technology. My heartfelt thanks for this forward-looking project go to Prof. Theo Pagel, Christopher Landsberg, and the entire zoo team.”

Cologne Zoo: Passionate About Animals. Tickets available online starting at 22.50 euros. www.koelnerzoo.de

Contact for further information:

Christoph Schütt

0221/7785-235
schuett@koelnerzoo.de

To celebrate the opening of the new giraffe enclosure, Cologne Zoo and TimeRide are now offering an immersive journey of discovery through the ecosystem of the African savanna

An experience for the whole family, recommended for ages 6 and up

Cologne, July 30, 2026. The new giraffe enclosure – twice as large as the previous one – home to “Maoli” and “Penda,” is the latest attraction at Cologne Zoo. To complement this, the zoo is expanding its offerings with an additional highlight. Starting now, the zoo and the time-travel specialists at TimeRide are offering an immersive journey of discovery through the ecosystem of the African savanna – an experience for the whole family, recommended for ages 6 and up.

The new mixed-reality experience “SAVANNA VR” transports zoo visitors right into the heart of the African savanna habitat. At two additional stations in the Old Rhino House, directly across from the new giraffe enclosure, families can experience one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems up close – and learn about the challenges its animal inhabitants face and the role humans play in the savanna. Following “Dino VR,” “SAVANNA VR” is already the second experience that TimeRide has launched at the Cologne Zoo.

The journey begins at a virtual globe: Using augmented reality, time travelers discover how the unique savanna habitat came to be, what types of savannas exist, and why such extraordinary biodiversity thrives there. Then the scene shifts to virtual reality – and guests find themselves in the middle of the savanna: From the animals’ perspective, they soar to lofty heights and plunge into wet depths, while a narrator provides fascinating background information on what they’re seeing. 

At the second station, guests get hands-on: On virtual playing fields, they observe how the animals’ lives change between the dry and rainy seasons – a playful discovery for young and old alike. The approximately 25-minute experience is available in German and English.

“First, admire our two Kordofan giraffes, ‘Penda’ and ‘Maoli,’ in person. Then, right across from them, immerse yourself in their natural habitat and learn fascinating facts about them: This is modern experiential education that leaves a lasting impression on people. We’re delighted to be able to present this additional offering just in time for the opening of the giraffe house,” said Prof. Theo B. Pagel and Christopher Landsberg, Executive Directors of Cologne Zoo.

“Cologne Zoo inspires people to appreciate the animal world – we open up perspectives that would otherwise remain hidden. With SAVANNA VR, families see the savanna through the eyes of its inhabitants and feel just how precious this ecosystem is. This turns learning into a shared adventure,” said Jonas Rothe, founder and CEO of TimeRide GmbH.

Videos and photos: TimeRide

Press contact for Cologne Zoo:

Julia Sander

0221/7785-236
sander@koelnerzoo.de

Press contact for TimeRide

Dr. Jasper Broeker · COO

TimeRide GmbH · Alter Markt 36 – 42 · 50667 Cologne

presse@timeride.de

Cologne Zoo: Passionate about animals. Book online starting at 22.50 euros. www.koelnerzoo.de 

Cologne, July 23, 2026. A new addition to the southern pudu population at the Cologne Zoo: On May 15, a female named “Yenai” was born here. Her mother is the three-year-old “Yadira,” who came from the Rotterdam Zoo. “Yenai” is “Yadira’s” second calf. The father is named “Alvess.” He was born at the Cologne Zoo four years ago. His bloodline, which is still relatively rare, is important for the conservation and expansion of the population of this endangered deer species. The zoo is all the more delighted that “Alvess” has now sired offspring for the third time.

“Yenai” is developing very well and is already exploring the outdoor enclosures, though she sometimes hides in the grass, which is completely normal and typical.

Pudus are a type of deer. There are three similar species – the southern pudu, which is kept at the Cologne Zoo, and formerly the northern pudu, which was recently split into two species. Southern pudus, such as those kept at the Cologne Zoo, live in the southern beech forests of Chile and a small part of southwestern Argentina. 

In contrast to northern pudus, which are found in the barren high-altitude regions of the Colombian, Ecuadorian, and Peruvian Andes, southern pudus are strictly forest-dwelling animals. They are shy and primarily nocturnal. Their diet consists of leaves, bark, fruits, flowers, and young tree shoots. In the wild, southern pudus are generally solitary and come together only to mate. Male pudus have antlers with a single tine measuring 5 – 10 cm, which are shed annually. 

Southern pudus are about half the size of our native roe deer. Unfortunately, the wild populations of these lovely animals are declining. Reasons include habitat destruction, hunting, competition from exotic deer species, and predation by feral dogs.

The Cologne pudu enclosures are located in the South America section in the center of the zoo – one between the enclosures for the giant anteaters and the primates and macaws in the Small South America House. In addition, pudus now live in the Cologne tapir enclosure and in the Tapir House. Pudus can live up to 20 years in zoos. There are currently 80 pudus living in 23 zoos across Europe. With seven animals, Cologne Zoo currently houses the second-largest group of pudus in German zoos.

Photos: <add>

This Friday is Singles Night at Cologne Zoo

This Friday, July 24, 2026, the third edition of the popular Singles Night will take place at Cologne Zoo.

Exclusively in an evening atmosphere: On this day, the zoo will make a special exception and open its doors in the evening from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (ages 18 and up). As a welcome and to set the mood for a “wildly” wonderful evening, all guests will receive a “Gin de Cologne” welcome drink. Then, if desired, guests can pin a colored lapel sticker of their choice: “Red” for “Looking for a woman” – “Blue” for “Looking for a man” – “Yellow” for “Gender doesn’t matter.”

Guests at the singles’ night will then explore the zoo, home to more than 12,000 animals and many cozy spots. There will also be various short guided tours, information booths, speed dating sessions, meet-and-greet spots, lounge music, and food and drink options.

Singles Night at the Zoo on July 24, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., ages 18 and up

Tickets: https://shop.koelnerzoo.de/en/article/37 – Box office open

Further information:

Christoph Schütt

0221 / 77 85 235

schuett@koelnerzoo.de 

Cologne, July 16, 2026. In mid-June, for the first time in more than twenty years, two Cuban flamingos hatched in the breeding colony of their parents at the Cologne Zoo. In previous years, the zoo had always initially raised the chicks by hand in the backstage areas during their first weeks of life to avoid the risk of losses caused by feathered “egg thieves” and inclement weather. 

This year, the zoo decided to let the chicks hatch from their eggs with their parents. The plan has been a success. Thanks to the currently ideal temperatures for flamingos, the young birds are thriving and growing stronger day by day.

It is not yet clear whether the chicks are male or female. In flamingos, sex determination is only possible once they are fully grown, based on their physical appearance. Males are generally larger than females and also have thicker legs.

Flamingos Need Company

Flamingos only feel at home in a group. A good 160 of these elegant animals – which love to prove that you can stand on one leg – currently live at the Cologne Zoo, some of them for quite some time. In captivity, flamingos can easily live to be over 60 years old.

Cuban flamingos are found mainly in Central America. They feed on plankton, which they filter from the water using their sieve-like beaks. In the wild, flamingos eat crustaceans whose pigments turn their plumage red. At the Cologne Zoo, the zookeepers feed them food mixed with red dyes. This ensures that the birds retain their vibrant coloration here as well. 

By the way: The flamingos can be easily observed from the sun terrace of the zoo restaurant “Flamingos” – a colorful highlight for lovely late-summer evenings.

July 24: Singles Night at the Cologne Zoo

If you’re hoping to put your rose-colored glasses back on in love soon, the Singles’ Night at Cologne Zoo – Cologne’s biggest singles event – is the perfect place for you. It takes place on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Exclusive evening atmosphere: On this day, the zoo will make an exception and open its doors in the evening from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (ages 18 and up). As a welcome and to set the mood for a “wildly” wonderful evening, all guests will receive a “Gin de Cologne” welcome drink. Then, if desired, you can pin on a colored lapel sticker of your choice: “Red” for “Seeking a Woman” – “Blue” for “Seeking a Man” – “Yellow” for “Gender Doesn’t Matter.”

Guests at the singles’ night will then explore the zoo, home to more than 12,000 animals and many cozy spots. There will also be various short guided tours, information booths, speed dating sessions, meet-and-greet spots, lounge music, and food and drink options.

Singles Night at the Zoo on July 24, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., ages 18 and up

Tickets: https://shop.koelnerzoo.de/en/article/37 – Box office open

Photos: Rolf Schlosser

Contact for further information:

AG Zoologischer Garten Köln

Christoph Schütt
0221/7785-235
schuett@koelnerzoo.de