Current notes

Precautionary measures against foot and mouth disease

Several cases of the highly contagious animal disease foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) have been confirmed in some of Austria's neighbouring countries. This viral disease only affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs and goats, but also zoo and wild animals such as antelopes, deer and giraffes. The pathogen spreads through direct contact with the animal, but also through contaminated products, faeces and objects. Foot-and-mouth disease is not dangerous for humans. However, humans can transmit the virus, which can cling to clothing or shoes, for example, to animals.

Schönbrunn Zoo is therefore taking extensive precautionary measures to protect its animal population:

• Closure of the petting zoo
• Temporary release of the Turopolje pigs
• Partial closure of the Tirolerhof

The zoo is in close contact with the relevant authorities. We thank you for your understanding and co-operation!

No giant pandas

There are currently no giant pandas at Schönbrunn Zoo. The former panda pair returned to China in September 2024. As part of the ongoing cooperation, a young pair will move in this spring. 

The Rainforest House is closed for construction.

Due to the high humidity inside the building, the Rainforest House is currently being refurbished. It already showed massive wear and tear and areas in need of repair, especially on the ground floor. For this reason, the lower area was closed to visitors some time ago. A comprehensive inventory of the defects was then carried out and it was decided not to refurbish the building selectively, but to implement a fundamentally new concept in the existing building. The refurbishment of the building envelope, in particular the roof structure, has already been largely completed. The extensive construction work on the interior is now in full swing. The Rainforest House will reopen at the beginning of 2026 with a new concept and exciting new residents.