Arctic Region

Overview

Step into a realm of icy wonder at the Arctic Region, known locally as the 'Eismeer,' within Tierpark Hagenbeck in Hamburg, Germany. This expansive and meticulously designed habitat offers an immersive journey to the poles, showcasing a captivating array of Arctic and Antarctic wildlife. Spanning over 8,000 square meters, the Arctic Region provides a unique opportunity to observe polar bears, walruses, various seals, and several species of penguins in environments that closely mimic their natural homes. The facility is a highlight of Hagenbeck, celebrated for its innovative animal husbandry and breathtaking visitor experiences.

Visitors embark on a 750-meter circular path that weaves through dramatic landscapes, allowing views both above and, crucially, below the water's surface through immense panoramic windows. It is an extraordinary experience that transports you thousands of miles away, inviting you to become a polar explorer for the day.

History & Cultural Background

The Tierpark Hagenbeck itself holds a pioneering place in zoological history. Founded by Carl Hagenbeck Jr. in 1907, it revolutionized zoo design by introducing bar-less enclosures and naturalistic panoramas, where animals were separated from visitors by moats rather than cages. This groundbreaking concept aimed to provide more humane living conditions for animals and a more natural viewing experience for guests.

The current Arctic Region, or Eismeer, opened its doors in July 2012, replacing an earlier, beloved 'Nordlandpanorama' that dated back to the zoo's early days. This new iteration was conceived with a deep respect for Hagenbeck's founding principles, combining tradition with cutting-edge innovation in animal care and visitor engagement. The ambition was to create a facility that not only met but exceeded modern animal welfare standards, reflecting the zoo's ongoing commitment to conservation and education.

What Makes It Special

The Arctic Region stands out for its impressive scale and attention to detail. It features massive pools holding between 5.3 and 5.5 million liters of water, creating ample space for animals like polar bears and walruses to swim and dive freely. The design incorporates artificial rock formations, simulated ice floes, and even a wave system to replicate the dynamic conditions of polar coastlines.

A notable aspect is the state-of-the-art, CO2-neutral water cooling system that maintains the water temperature at a cool maximum of 15°C year-round, utilizing waste heat from other park operations. This sustainable approach significantly reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, underscoring Hagenbeck's dedication to environmental responsibility. The 'Ice Chamber' provides a dedicated, permanently chilled habitat for Antarctic penguins, kept at below 7°C, where visitors can observe King and Gentoo penguins exhibiting their full range of natural behaviors, including walking, climbing, swimming, and sliding.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Eismeer is home to Germany's only group of walruses, a species deeply rooted in Hagenbeck's history. The park once housed 'Antje,' a walrus who became a beloved television star in Germany. The birth of a walrus calf in May 2019 continued this legacy. Another remarkable event occurred in the summer of 2020 with the birth of an albino South American sea lion pup, a rare genetic mutation, highlighting the diversity and occasional surprises of nature within the park.

The extensive seabird aviary allows Arctic seabirds, including puffins, to fly freely in Europe's largest free-flight aviary of its kind, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into their aerial and aquatic lives. The immersive journey also educates visitors about biodiversity and the pressing issues of nature and species protection, with educational panels and programs encouraging a deeper understanding of these vulnerable ecosystems.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Arctic Region is an adventure for all ages and is designed to be fully accessible, with barrier-free paths suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The panoramic underwater viewing areas provide truly spectacular, nose-to-glass encounters with powerful polar bears gliding through water and agile penguins darting around. It's an opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures and their fragile habitats in a profound way. The thoughtful design ensures that while visitors feel incredibly close to the animals, the welfare and natural behaviors of the inhabitants remain paramount. You leave not only entertained but also with a heightened appreciation for the wonders of the polar world and the importance of its preservation.