This 85-acre zoo opened its doors in 1844, the first of its kind in Germany. Only 91 animals survived the destruction caused by World War II; however, the institute rose from the ashes to become one of the largest zoos in the world. It exhibits about 14,000 animals and 1,400 species. The zoo is also involved in several conservation programs, including collaborations with the Worldwide Fund for Nature in habitat preservation both in Europe and abroad, as well as the preservation of species like the short-necked giraffe and the giant panda.