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Zoo supports "Zooier in 2024" - southern ball girdle new in the inventory
The Vivarium Darmstadt Zoo is participating in the nationwide “Zooier of the Year” of the Zoological Society for Species and Population Protection e. V. (ZGAP). This year the focus is on the belt animal, the habitats of which are increasingly threatened. Recently, a southern ball girdle can also be seen in the Vivarium - together with the silver monkeys in Dr. Maria Börsig-Haus.
Belted animals have been around for around 60 million years. The primeval mammals originally come from Central and South America . With a total of 23 species, they are part of a diverse group of animals: some are barely 15 centimeters in size, others reach a body length of more than one meter. Thanks to their flexible tank made of connected bone slabs, some types can roll together in the event of danger.
Life and threat
Belt animals are mainly nocturnal insect eaters , many of them live underground . They are considered to be ecosystem engineers - through their gravity they loosen the ground, promote ventilation and create retreats for over 30 other species such as ozelots, flatland tapire or Tamanduas.
But despite their important role in the ecosystem, many types of belt animals are threatened. The causes include:
- Destruction of the habitat by agriculture (soy, rice and palm oil plantations)
- Loss of food from pesticide use
- Hunting and poaching because of their meat
- Dangers from road traffic and pets
Many species are also difficult to research because they live hidden. So far, some threats have so far not been included Red List of IUCN
Vivarium zoo wants to create consciousness
With participation in the campaign, the Vivarium Zoo wants to contribute not only to preserve this special group of animals, but also promote education and environmental education . The southern spherical belt animal , which can currently be seen in the zoo, offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the endangered animal species - right on site.
Further information on the "Zooier of the Year" campaign is available on the official website of the ZGAP- Zoological Society for species and population protection .
