Wilhelma to unveil new Amur tiger enclosure
On July 17, 2025, Wilhelma Zoo & Botanical Garden in Stuttgart will unveil its newest attraction: a state-of-the-art exhibit for the Amur tiger, also known as the Siberian tiger, the largest living cat in the world. The enclosure will be home to two tigers (whose names will be unveiled July 16th): a male from the zoo in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, and a female from Nessles, France. At just over one million euros, the new habitat is among the most modern in the world, with every aspect of its design focused on the animals’ well-being.
Wilhema Zoo & Botanical Garden, photo by Erin Henderson
Both tigers are two years old, and it is hoped that they will breed, contributing to the preservation of this endangered species. The enclosure measures approximately 5,000 square meters, which can be divided into three distinct parts. There will be several viewing points of the enclosure, as well as educational video streaming from mounted TVs. The Amur tiger was chosen because it can withstand both the summer heat in Germany and the cold winter months.
For each animal project, Wilhelma partners with a conservation organization in the origin country of that species (when possible). For the Amur tiger, they are working with the Wild Cats Conservation Alliance. The Verein der Freunde und Förderer der Wilhelma (Friends and Supporters of Wilhelma), the zoo’s non-profit organization that was established in 1956, has over 35,000 members, making it the largest zoo association in Europe. Each year, The Verein der Freunde und Förderer der Wilhelma contributes 20.000 euros to support ranger patrols in the Kerinci-Seblat National Park in Sumatra. They were also responsible for the €1 million contribution to the construction of this enclosure.
In addition to the non-profit, a portion of the adult ticket entry fee is designated as “Conservation Euros” to support ongoing projects. Currently, Wilhelma and the Verein der Freunde und Förderer der Wilhelma support 40 conservation projects worldwide, contributing more than one million euros in 2023 and 2024 to these initiatives.
Momma and one of her six cubs that were recently born at Wilhema, photo by Erin Henderson
Home to over 1,200 species of animals, Wilhelma features ten thoughtfully designed play areas scattered throughout the grounds. Each location is tailored to teach children about the animals housed nearby. As the only combined zoological and botanical garden in Germany (it also has over 8,500 species and breeds of plants), Wilhelma attracts nearly two million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular zoos in the country.
Wilhelma is open every day of the year, with opening hours varying by season. You can purchase your tickets online in advance or grab them at the machines located near the entrance upon arrival. A yearly pass is available for purchase and is great for families.
