The old donkey enclosure no longer met the needs of the donkeys. A larger new building with various exercise incentives was urgently needed. This was built opposite the former pony stable and by integrating the existing riding arena. As a result, the area for the donkeys increased. Motivation for the constant movement of the running animals is created by the construction of various running paths and three-dimensional structures. By strategically distributing resources like water, food, scratching posts, shade and resting areas along these designated paddock trails, we are effectively recreating natural habitats within a human-managed environment.
However, the new enclosure not only better meets the needs of the donkeys but also offers a significantly more attractive experience for visitors to the Naturschutz-Tierpark Görlitz-Zgorzelec. Visitors can get particularly close to the animals on a platform where they can inspect the hooves of the sure-footed donkeys and discover a hoof-matching game. The succesful concept of animal proximity continues with grass feeding. Unlike the old barn, the new donkey enclosure is accessible to visitors. The exterior, designed in a half-timbered style, aligns with the ambiance of an Upper Lusatia farmhouse, visually and thematically expanding the visitor experience.
A new riding playground has opened at the Naturschutz Tierpark Görlitz-Zgorzelec, complete with a donkey herd. Children can ride life-sized wooden replicas of the zoo's donkeys, learning about their distinctive features and age differences. The wooden donkeys, named Tesina, Melinda, Herbert and Camilla, accurately represent the real donkeys in the enclosure. The interactive experience is designed for children of all ages and allows them to learn about donkeys in a fun and engaging way. While the children ride, the real donkeys can be observed relaxing nearby.
This project was made possible by the generous support of the Max, Erika and Erna Ulrich Foundation.
