Reptile Zoo Happ
The Happ reptile zoo is a scientifically managed zoo in the St. Martin district of the Carinthian capital, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee .
Livestock
The animal population shows a cross-section of the reptile world living today: from the largest giant snake in the world, the reticulated python; to the most venomous snake in the world, the taipan; the largest venomous snake in the world, the king cobra or various lizards such as crocodiles and rhinoceros iguanas. One focus is on the reptiles native to Central Europe , which are successfully bred every year. Venomous and giant snakes are also bred. Altogether over 1000 animals are presented on approx. 4000 m². Galapagos and Seychelles giant tortoises, a wide variety of water turtles, various lizards , monitor lizards , iguanas and snakes live in the open-air facilities . A petting zoo , a dinosaur park with almost life-size models and an insectarium are shown.
According to its own information, it is the largest and most species-rich reptile zoo in Austria.
The reptile zoo Happ is the reptile sanctuary of the state of Carinthia and accepts abandoned or confiscated animals and offers help with snakes in the house and garden.
history
The zoo was founded on April 1, 1976 by Friedrich Happ (1920–2000), who made his “lifelong dream” come true. The project was financed predominantly with private funds, which Happ developed through lectures and special exhibitions in natural history museums . Friedrich Happ's aim was to draw attention to the need to protect snakes and to reduce fears about them.
Since the death of Friedrich Happ in 2000, his wife Helga Happ has been running the reptile zoo. According to Helga Happ, their daughter and animal keeper, Sabine Happ, will take over the management from the time they retire.
Visitor numbers
The annual number of visitors is around 200,000 (including 1,000 school classes).
Web links
Individual evidence
Coordinates: 46 ° 37 ′ 11.7 " N , 14 ° 15 ′ 56.1" E