Reuschenberg wildlife park
The Reuschenberg Wildlife Park is an animal park in the western part of the Reuschenberg Forest in Leverkusen-Küppersteg on the border with Bürrig .
history
The wildlife park is based on the initiative of the Leverkusen Wildlife Park sponsorship group, which was founded in 1970. Due to contracts with the city, which made the area available and promised financial support, the wildlife park was finally opened in 1976. From 1984 the operation of the wildlife park was completely transferred to the city of Leverkusen, whereby the operation continues to be supported by the Förderkreis. In addition, the wildlife park is supported by donations and sponsoring (e.g. animal sponsorships). The closure of the park for financial reasons proposed in 2006 has been averted for the time being. In January 2008 the Lebenshilfe-Werkstätten Leverkusen / Rhein-Berg gGmbH took over the operation of the park.
After the park initially only consisted of two rows of aviaries , it was gradually expanded and today, according to various sources, has an area of 3.4 or 5.5 hectares. It is visited by around 200,000 guests annually.
The name of the wildlife park is reminiscent of the former Reuschenberg Castle , which was nearby from 1295 to 1968. However, it was then demolished due to war damage and deterioration.
Livestock
The zoo is home to native wild and domestic animals, from wood ants , birds , turtles to larger species such as lynx , deer , mouflon , goat and otter .
By supporting various breeding projects, the park contributes to the conservation of various species of animals that are threatened with extinction.
While the animal population today is mainly concentrated on native animal species, more exotic species such as z. B. kept ocelots or peacocks . Even a brown bear was part of the population at times.
Others
In addition to outdoor enclosures and aviaries for the various animal species, the wildlife park has a bird and forest damage nature trail with a large number of appropriate exhibits and educational boards. Both run through a forest with several ponds.
As part of a zoo school , an attempt is made to raise awareness of zoological and ecological problems, especially among school and youth groups.
In the entrance area, the Wildpark Bistro offers the opportunity to stop for a break. There are also events for both adults and children such as B. LEVies! instead of.
Web links
Coordinates: 51 ° 3 ′ 19.4 ″ N , 6 ° 58 ′ 54.9 ″ E