Tierwelt Herberstein, Zoo in Stubenberg, Austria
Tierwelt Herberstein is a zoo in Stubenberg that houses about 130 animal species from Africa, America, Eurasia, and Australia in naturalistic enclosures. The facility spans across several continental sections set within a woodland setting that gives animals room to move naturally.
The tradition of keeping animals at Herberstein started in the 17th century when deer roamed the steep slopes of the estate. This early practice evolved over time into the modern zoo that now displays animals from around the world.
The zoo's name comes from Schloss Herberstein, the castle whose steep slopes shaped it: Count Johann Maximilian I zu Herberstein gave up cattle there and brought fallow deer from Italy instead. In 2023 the Steiermark Schau regional exhibition was held at Tierwelt Herberstein, and since 2022 the zoo has been part of the Universalmuseum Joanneum.
The zoo lies by Schloss Herberstein in the municipality of Stubenberg, on steep slopes around the castle, so expect hilly ground and wear sturdy shoes. It is open to visitors throughout the year, not only at weekends. The grounds are divided into sections for animals of all five continents, so plan enough time to walk between them.
The cheetah enclosure is one of the largest in Europe and features a mechanical device that simulates hunting situations. This special training tool helps the big cats maintain their natural hunting instincts while living in the facility.
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