Schönbrunn Zoo delays rainforest house opening to 2027

Schönbrunn Zoo in Vienna will open its renovated rainforest house in early 2027, a year later than planned, ORF reported. Construction, which began in 2022, uncovered more extensive damage than expected after two decades of operation in high humidity, director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck said.

The renovation was due to be completed this year. The zoo is using the work to introduce a new concept, which has required changes to the building’s walls and heating system. The rainforest house will also include a large bat enclosure.

Hering-Hagenbeck said the zoo was particularly looking forward to welcoming a pangolin, which he said can be seen at only three other zoos in Europe.

A new conservation aquarium is also planned, but its opening now appears more likely in 2029 than the previously announced 2028. The zoo is in discussions with authorities over the project, as construction must meet modern animal-care standards while fitting within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The zoo will celebrate its 275th anniversary in 2027 and plans to focus on conservation with new animal species. Hering-Hagenbeck did not rule out another increase in admission prices.

The director also said he stood by the decision not to use animals’ names in public communications as a marketing tool, though the animals do have names. The Supreme Administrative Court also overturned a permit for him to possess a large firearm. Hering-Hagenbeck said he accepted the ruling but believed such a weapon should be available at a zoo to protect human life.