Wilhelma becomes a hub for the protection of reptiles and orchids in partnership with the IUCN Species Survival Commission

The CSS, based at Wilhelma, will focus on two main areas of work: Namely, reptiles on the zoological and orchids on the botanical side. In close coordination with the IUCN SSC Specialist Groups for reptiles and the IUCN SSC Orchids Specialist Group, the aim is to record the endangered status of species in their natural distribution areas and develop conservation measures. In order to implement these objectives, a dedicated position has been created at Wilhelma for each of the two specialist areas within the existing conservation department.

“Orchids and reptiles are among the most diverse yet often overlooked groups in conservation. Through this new Center for Species Survival with Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Gardens, we are combining the strengths of the SSC's and Wilhelma’s dedicated teams of experts to assess, plan and mobilise action for these remarkable species. This partnership will help ensure these taxa receive the urgent, coordinated efforts needed to secure their future.” explained Dr. Kira Mileham, IUCN SSC Global Strategic Partnership Director.

“The extinction of species is one of the greatest challenges of our time. The Red List of Threatened Animal and Plant Species, published by the IUCN, is an important tool for taking measures to save those species whose populations are currently in particularly bad shape. However, the degree of endangerment of many species is unknown. And this is precisely where we see our responsibility: Our Center for Species Survival will establish global networks and join forces to assess the threat status and causes of endangerment of different orchid and reptile species. Together with the IUCN Species Survival Commission and people committed to species conservation around the world, the aim is to develop strategies and concrete measures to save endangered species from extinction.” said Wilhelma Director Dr. Thomas Kölpin on the role of Wilhelma regarding the fight against the biodiversity crisis.

“Wilhelma is involved in around 40 species conservation projects around the world. In the past two years alone, over 2 million euros have been raised. The funds for this were largely generated via the Conservation-Euro introduced in 2019, which our visitors pay voluntarily via their admission. We are proud to now be able to play an even greater role in international species conservation with our staff, thanks to the establishment of our Center for Species Survival.” added Stefanie Reska, Head of Species Conservation at Wilhelma.

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About the IUCN Species Survival Commission

With over 11,000 members in 186 territories, the Species Survival Commission (SSC) is the largest of the seven expert commissions of IUCN and enables it to influence, encourage and assist societies to conserve biodiversity by building knowledge on the status and threats to species, providing advice, developing policies and guidelines, facilitating conservation planning, and catalysing conservation action. Learn more at www.iucn.org/ssc.

About Wilhelma

Wilhelma is the only zoological and botanical garden in Germany. With around 1,200 animal and 8,500 plant species, it is one of the most species-rich institutions in the world. The promotion of domestic and global biodiversity, botanical collections, and scientific research work is among Wilhelma's most important missions. With over 1.8 million visitors per year (as of 2024), Wilhelma is also one of the most popular leisure facilities in Baden-Württemberg and one of the most visited zoos in Germany. Wilhelma has been a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) since 2022. Learn more at www.wilhelma.de.