Leipzig (dpa/sn) - With the end of the corona-related restrictions, the Leipzig Zoo has experienced an unexpected influx of visitors. In the previous year, 1.87 million people were registered, as the zoo announced on Friday. "We are very enthusiastic about the response. It was the third strongest year ever," said zoo director Jörg Junhold. This puts the zoo in the top three in Germany and in the top 10 in Europe.

Due to the good number of visitors, the admission prices would not have to be increased. "Provided that the economic crisis does not get any worse and that the visitors remain loyal to us," stressed Junhold. He expects an increase in costs for electricity, heat and water of around 1.5 million euros this year.

For the coming year, the major projects such as the second construction phase of the Tierra del Fuego are to be continued, and the terrarium is to be further renovated. A reopening is planned for next year.

In addition, the species protection project is to be expanded. "One goal is to further expand the breeding station for the European hamster, which is threatened with extinction," explained the zoo director. In the previous year, 13 young animals were born in the zoo. A first resettlement is planned for 2024. This year, young giraffes and elephants are also expected.