Caretaker to Pursue Chasing Animal with Saw
In the picturesque town of Tannenbühl, nestled amidst the Bavarian forests, lies a unique wildlife park that is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boars, mouflons, dwarf goats, red deer, and ibexes. At the heart of this sanctuary is Alois Genal, the dedicated caretaker who has been tending to these creatures for the past 27 years.
Each day begins with a visit to the wild boar enclosure, where six sows, a 200-kilogram boar named Nero, and 13 piglets born in February and March reside. Today, their meals consist of hazelnuts, fresh grass, corn silage, grain pellets, concentrate feed, water-soaked hard bread, old pretzels, and rolls. After feeding, the enclosure is cleaned with a broom, and the animals are given fresh water.
Alois, a man of many talents, also teaches the reporter, Karin Kiesel, the art of tractor driving. He is not one to rest on his laurels, often embarking on long tours by E-bike, reaching the Allgäu, and racking up around 7,000 kilometers a year. His fitness regime extends to winter, where he enjoys cross-country skiing.
Tannenbühl offers a myriad of facilities for visitors, including a climbing park, play opportunities for children, a sports trail, a grill hut, a ball field, and guided forest tours. The wildlife enclosures are a major draw, providing a chance to observe these magnificent creatures up close. However, it's important to remember that these are wild animals, and care should be taken, especially during the rutting season when red deer stags can display aggressive behaviour.
The ibex enclosure houses young animals, with the males kept separate in a neighbouring enclosure to prevent jealousy and potential injury. Their main food is hay, sourced from Bad Wurzach-Oberziegelbach, a high-quality hay from species-rich meadows with a high proportion of various herbs.
Standing among the wild boars can create a slightly uneasy feeling due to their aggressive behaviour, but Alois's calm demeanour and experienced handling of the animals put visitors at ease. Observing a stag with its mighty antlers can be awe-inspiring, a testament to the natural beauty that Tannenbühl strives to protect and nurture.
As the sun sets, Alois ensures that the animals are safe and comfortable for the night. Upon arrival at the animal enclosures, they check and empty trash cans, a small but vital task in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the park.
In his spare time, Alois enjoys observing and guiding the sheep with a shepherd's staff or a plow, ensuring their safety and proper movement. His dedication to the wildlife park is evident, and his love for the animals shines through in every aspect of his work.
Tannenbühl wildlife park is a testament to Alois Genal's lifelong commitment to conservation and care for wildlife. His passion and dedication have created a sanctuary where these magnificent creatures can thrive, providing a unique and educational experience for visitors.
