Loro Parque has paid tribute to Thomas Arndt, the renowned ornithologist, publisher and specialist in parrots, by presenting him posthumously with the 2025 Gorilla Award. The ceremony took place on 27 October at the headquarters of the Presidency of the Canary Islands Government in Tenerife, recognising a lifetime dedicated to the study, promotion and conservation of these birds.
The award was accepted by René Wüst, who continues to lead Arndt Verlag, the publishing house founded by the honouree. The ceremony was presided over by Wolfgang Kiessling, president of Loro Parque, and attended by institutional representatives and members of the Loro Parque Foundation.
More than four decades devoted to the study of parrots
Thomas Arndt was an internationally recognised figure in ornithology. For more than 40 years, he studied and documented different parrot species, focusing not only on well-known birds but also on species that had received less scientific attention.
His work helped expand knowledge of the diversity, distribution and biology of parrots. He also made a significant contribution to scientific publishing and public education through Arndt Verlag and specialist publications such as PAPAGEIEN, which he edited for more than three decades.
One of his most important contributions was the creation of an extensive photographic encyclopaedia of the world's parrots, a reference work featuring more than 300 species and their subspecies.
An international career dedicated to conservation
Arndt's work went beyond research and publishing. He also took part in international conservation initiatives, including projects involving the Spix's macaw, one of the world's most endangered parrot species.
In 1986, he took over the coordination of a programme dedicated to this species. He later collaborated with organisations and projects focused on protecting natural habitats in Indonesia. His career brought together scientific knowledge, environmental education and practical conservation work.
During the tribute, Loro Parque highlighted the importance of sharing scientific knowledge as a way to protect wildlife and its natural habitats.
The Gorilla Award and Loro Parque's commitment to biodiversity
Established in 2003 on the initiative of Wolfgang Kiessling, the Gorilla Award recognises individuals and organisations whose work has made an outstanding contribution to environmental protection, biodiversity and animal welfare.
The recognition of Thomas Arndt highlights the importance of scientific outreach and international cooperation in protecting endangered species. It also reflects the work of the Loro Parque Foundation, which supports biodiversity conservation projects in collaboration with scientific institutions and organisations around the world.
According to figures shared during the ceremony, the Foundation has helped save 18 species from extinction and has participated in more than 300 conservation projects across 56 countries.
Loro Parque, a place to discover the animal world
The latest news from Loro Parque once again highlights the importance of understanding and protecting wildlife. For visitors to Tenerife, the park offers the opportunity to discover different animal species, learn about their characteristics and explore biodiversity through its facilities and experiences.
A visit to Loro Parque can be a memorable addition to a holiday in Tenerife, combining a day out with opportunities to learn more about nature and the animal world. It is an especially appealing experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
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