Alpacas back in the vivarium: children's hearts beat faster!

Alpacas back in the vivarium: children's hearts beat faster!

From now on you can visit the charming alpacas in the Vivarium Darmstadt. These new animal additions bring a breath of fresh air and revitalize the former kangaroo enclosure, which now houses three mares. The return of the alpacas is not only due to their current popularity, but also to the special request of young visitors who regularly come to the zoo with the Association for Children with Cancer and Chronically Ill Children. V. Darmstadt come. The zoo kept and bred alpacas around 50 years ago, and those responsible are pleased to be able to continue this tradition and thereby put computer testing in the hands of children. According to Rhein Main Verlag, alpacas not only attract with their friendly nature, but also with their fascinating history, as they were probably bred from vicunas around 6,000 years ago and once served as a symbol of prosperity for the Incas.

From their wool to their popularity as a hobby – alpacas are now very popular in Germany. Over three million alpacas live in Peru alone, and these New World camelids are also enjoying increasing popularity here. They fit seamlessly into the multitude of around 1,500 animals that can be admired in the vivarium, which covers an area of ​​5 hectares. There are also many other exotic and native animal species to discover here. There are also attractions such as a petting zoo with African dwarf goats, a playground and a restaurant, which make the visit a special experience. For those interested, there are also numerous zoo education offers such as guided tours, workshops and courses for children and adults. The Vivarium website provides more details at vivarium.darmstadt.de.

Unique comparisons and challenges in animal husbandry

In the vivarium, visitors have the opportunity to compare the domesticated form of the vicuña, which is also kept there. This is not only great fun for animal lovers, but also provides exciting insights into the world of camelids. These are of great importance for humans, which is also highlighted by the UN, which has declared 2024 the International Year of the Camelid. This honors the cultural and ecological relevance of animals such as alpacas and llamas, which are becoming increasingly popular in both agriculture and hobby farming.

Alpacas are also the focus of current scientific surveys: On October 30, 2024, a conference will take place at the Friedrich Loeffler Institute in Jena, where experts will discuss challenges in animal husbandry and the health of New World camelids. The event is organized together with the Justus Liebig University of Gießen, which is developing species-appropriate husbandry methods and animal health management as part of a funded project. One of the goals is to obtain more data on infectious diseases that can affect both animals and humans. Anyone interested should definitely note this date in their calendar.

For animal lovers and families, the Vivarium Darmstadt not only offers a unique opportunity to experience alpacas up close, but also to gain insights into the challenges of modern animal husbandry. If you would like to find out more about alpacas or are interested in animal experiences, you can book exciting farm tours and tours at Luna Alpakas.