Dag Encke

Dag Encke has been director of the Nuremberg Zoo since 2005. He also serves as president of the Association of Zoological Gardens (VdZ) in Berlin, and is a board member of the German Species Conservation Foundation, a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research in Berlin, and of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Schönbrunn Zoo in Vienna.

“His exhibits for manatees, Mediterranean mammals and reptiles, dung beetles and many more are innovative, as is his approach to research and education,” said one person who nominated Encke.

“The Nuremberg Zoo’s contribution to conservation, especially of marine mammals and native fauna, is exceptional. He has inspired a whole generation of zoo professionals in Germany and most of Europe,” they added.