Lindenthaler Tierpark

A walk through Lindenthal Zoo is enjoyable for young and old at any time of year. Especially for little ones. Because here in the park, the leaves rustle underfoot, while immediately afterwards a movement at the edge of the path captures the children's attention: a herd of fallow deer wander peacefully under the trees, just a few meters away and can be fed from your hand.

This picture is part of everyday life at Lindenthal Zoo - an institution that has been combining nature experience and recreation for over 100 years in the green district of Lindenthal in the west of Cologne - for residents and guests of Cologne from all over the world.

History: more than 100 years old

The origins of the park date back to 1908, when an eight-hectare enclosure for fallow deer and roe deer was created in the city forest: this was the foundation stone for today's zoo grounds. After being closed during the Second World War, the park was reopened in 1951 at the insistence of the people of Cologne - initially with just one fallow deer and three dams. This modest herd was the beginning of today's large animal population. As a park, the zoo in Lindenthal is so deeply rooted in Cologne's history.

The concept: free-range instead of exhibition

Embedded in the historic park grounds of the Stadtwald Forest, the Lindenthal zoo follows the special concept of free-range. In addition to Scottish Highland cattle, donkeys and rare goat species that live in spacious enclosures, you will encounter free-roaming herds of fallow deer and primitive Soay sheep that cross your path undisturbed as a visitor.

The bird area offers a special variety: in addition to turkeys and guinea fowl, you can observe peacocks, black mourning swans and various species of geese such as the bar-headed goose and the mute goose. Indian runner ducks and Brahmas - which are among the largest chicken breeds in the world - also have their home here. The focus is on animal welfare, natural husbandry and species-appropriate living conditions.

Preserved through the commitment of friends and sponsors

Since it was founded, admission to the zoo has been free for everyone. This is thanks to a great deal of civic commitment. When the zoo was threatened with closure at the end of the 1990s, the "Verein der Freunde und Förderer des Lindenthaler Tierparks e.V." was founded in 2000. Through donations, membership fees and animal sponsorships, this association ensures the continued existence and care of the park as well as species-appropriate husbandry. Please help to ensure that the animals are treated responsibly - and protect their health: only feeding with food from the vending machines is permitted.