«Wildtiernah Berlin»: New wildlife network launched

A red fox lies comfortably on the lawn of the Chancellor's Garden at the Federal Chancellery and watches a hooded crow landing. (Archive photo)

Whether it's advice on injured wild animals or support in dealing with them, the "Wildtiernah Berlin" network is launching in Berlin.

"With the wildlife network, Berlin will for the first time offer a central point of contact for Berliners, associations, clubs, and administrations with questions, problems, or concerns regarding wildlife," said Andreas Kraus, State Secretary for Climate Protection and the Environment, according to the announcement.

Consultation by phone and online

This is "a major milestone in view of the large number of volunteers working with great commitment in Berlin," he said. The network is coordinated by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW). According to its own information, the institute is also active in research projects on Berlin foxes, squirrels, and wild boars. According to the IZW, "Wildtiernah Berlin" will provide advice by phone or online to people who care for wild animals in distress. In addition, a so-called "wildlife mobile" will be used to treat injured wild animals on site.

Supplementing existing structures

The new network is intended to supplement existing advisory services and structures and support the work of volunteers in reception centers, for example. In coordination with the Berlin regional association of the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (Nabu), telephone consultation hours will be extended, among other things. According to the information provided, the network was founded on the initiative of several members of parliament from different political parties in Berlin. It is funded by the Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection, and the Environment.

Overview of contact options

Citizens can call the wildlife hotline for advice and support on dealing with wild animals in the city: [phone]. The wildlife hotline is only available during opening hours (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday from 7 a.m. to 12 noon and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Outside of opening hours, citizens can send an email to [e-mail].