Overview
- Unknown intruders entered the Zoologischer Stadtgarten Karlsruhe overnight and dumped trash into multiple habitats.
- Pools for Humboldt penguins, sea lions, seals and polar bears were singled out, with torn-off signs, disposable cutlery and plastic bottles thrown into the water.
- Zoo staff began intensive cleaning in the morning and in some cases fully drained pools to remove debris.
- The zoo reports no indications that animals swallowed objects, though the possibility cannot be excluded and behavior is being closely observed.
- Police in Karlsruhe have opened an investigation, and the zoo estimates damage at several thousand euros, with windows at the ape house also defaced.