Christmas Tree for Himalayan Tahrs and Golden Takins in Vienna Zoo

Those who live in a shared apartment usually celebrate Christmas together. This also applies to the residents of the new facility for Asian mountain animals at the Schönbrunn Zoo. For the Himalayan tahrs and golden takins, the zookeeper team decorated a Christmas tree with delicacies before Christmas. "Both animal species primarily eat hay, but as a Christmas treat, there was fruit and vegetables for a change," explained the zoological department head Rupert Kainradl.

Zucchini, Celery, Carrots

For the Christmas surprise, the food was quickly turned into Christmas tree decorations. Zucchini served as tinsel, a celery formed the star, and carrots acted as candles. Apple and pepper rings also adorned the tree, which was eventually nibbled on by the animals as well.

The 1,400 square meter facility was opened in the fall of 2024 and was initially occupied by the Himalayan tahrs. This year, the endangered golden takins followed, impressing with their strong stature and golden-colored fur.

Harmonious "Christmas Celebration"

Within the animal shared apartment, the male tahrs take the lead. "The Himalayan tahrs immediately took over the tree and secured the treats. The two male golden takins initially only observed from a distance. If we hadn't lured the tahrs away with pellets, there would probably have been little left of the tree decorations for their roommates," chuckled zookeeper Marko Ascher. The small "Christmas celebration" went harmoniously, just like the everyday coexistence, where both animal species complement each other well.

(APA/Red)

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