21st Century

2000 The Albert Schöchle Amazon House is completed. This project, too, was substantially supported by the Society of Friends. Wilhelma reaches a record number of visitors of more than 2 million.

2002 Inauguration of the Insectarium with the Butterfly Hall.

2005 The largest plant in the world, the giant titan, blossoms. With a height of 2.7 metres it sets up a new world record.

2006 The new Crocodile Hall is opened. Four saltwater crocodiles, of which two are white, move into the Hall.
Wilhelma takes part in the "Long Night of the Museums" (where museums open after hours) for the first time.
The Society of Friends celebrates its 50th anniversary.

2006/2007 The year 2006 is the year with the highest number of visitors at Wilhelma so far. More than 2.1 million people have come to the zoological and botanical gardens.

2007 The decision has been taken in the architecture competition. The Architects' Bureau Hascher and Jehle is commissioned to plan and construct the Compound for African Apes. Costs are expected to be 13 million Euros. Earliest begin of construction: spring 2008.

Future prospects:

• Renovation of the Main Entrance
• Construction of a spacious Elephant Compound
• Extension of the Enclosure for Beasts of Prey (Big Cats)