Zoo Zürich replaces camels with endangered gold takins for conservation

Zoo Zürich is giving away its four camels and replacing them with endangered gold takins from the Himalaya region. Visitors have only two more weeks to observe the Bactrian camels in Zurich before the animals move to the Kamelhof Olmerswil in Thurgau.

Camels Make Room for Endangered Gold Takins

The decision to part with the camels stems from a shift in the zoo’s animal population strategy. Zoo Director Severin Dressen explained to the Regionaljournal Zürich-Schaffhausen of Radio SRF that the camels must clear space for the gold takin. This distinctive mammal features golden fur and a large elk-like snout. It holds strict state protection status in China and carries an endangered classification.

Before the new animals arrive, the former camel enclosure will be renovated, according to Dressen. The acquisition aligns with the institution’s broader mission to support wildlife conservation. By taking in the vulnerable species, the facility aims to prevent extinctions through participation in breeding programs designed to maintain reserve populations.

Shifting Animal Populations Toward 2030

The transition forms part of an overarching plan for the facility. By 2030, Zoo Zürich intends to house exclusively endangered species or animals relevant to research. Over the coming years, additional non-endangered animals will depart the grounds, including the seals, to make room for threatened arrivals.

These operational changes directly impact local traditions tied to the zoo’s current residents. The Zunft zum Kämbel, which features a camel on its coat of arms, traditionally includes the zoo’s camels in its Sechseläuten procession through the city. Guild Master Christian Bretscher confirmed to the regional broadcaster that the animals will still participate in future parades. However, logistical arrangements will change because the animals must travel from Thurgau rather than walking down from the zoo to Bahnhofstrasse.

The four camels leave Zurich for Thurgau.