New residents at Chemnitz Zoo
Tropical House reopens tomorrow after construction work
Three new residents have moved into Chemnitz Zoo. The three adders can now be found in the outdoor terrarium. This was built especially for them. Here, the snakes can be kept in near-natural conditions all year round. This is because adders - rather untypically for reptiles - prefer cooler regions.
Due to the falling outside temperatures, it is possible that the adders in the zoo have already retreated into one of the caves in the outdoor terrarium to hibernate there. However, due to the near-natural design of the terrarium, you need a little patience and a good eye to spot the animals, even in warm temperatures. As snakes often do not enjoy a good reputation among people, the new home and its inhabitants will also be heavily involved in the educational work of the zoo.
The adder is one of the most widespread snake species in Europe. It is the only venomous snake in eastern Germany and, along with the grass snake and smooth snake, is one of three snake species that are also native to Saxony. They are related to the viper family. These snakes are all venomous. Vipers have two venomous fangs with which they can inject venom from their venom glands into potential prey. However, a bite from an adder is almost never fatal for humans. Only for weakened or sick people can the venom of an adder be life-threatening. However, adders are rather shy and only bite if they are stepped on, irritated or touched.
Adders owe their name to the distinct dark zigzag band on their back. They can grow to between 50 and 75 centimetres in length. Their relationship to vipers can be easily recognised by their triangular head and vertical pupils.
Tropical house open again
From tomorrow, 17 October, the tropical house at the zoo will be open again. It can be visited again in compliance with the applicable hygiene rules (one-way street, wearing a face mask, keeping your distance and maximum numbers).
Opening hours in October
Zoo: 9 am to 5 pm, last admission 4 pm
Game enclosure: 8 am to 4 pm, last admission 3 pm