To get us all in the Christmas spirit, Diane sets up and lovingly decorates a Christmas tree. You are all invited to come and see how she does it! Frohe Weihnachten!

In this skit featuring German comedian Otto Waalkes, Santa's helper wants a raise. What do you think his boss will say?

For animal lovers: A former US troops area near Hanau will be the new home for up to thirty Przewalski horses – the last remaining subspecies of the wild horse.

For several years now, a small herd of wild Przewalski horses – named for Russian explorer Colonel Przewalski – has been grazing in Hanau near Frankfurt am Main. They are considered the last living subspecies of the wild horse.

For animal lovers: currently there is a lack of everything at the Nied Animal Protection Society in Frankfurt. There were not enough Christmas donations and the animal shelter is, as always, extremely crowded after Christmas.

For animal lovers: Beastly addition – both cheetahs Mara and Malawi are the new stars of the Opel Zoo in Kronberg.

Are you an animal lover? Do you enjoy being outside, breathing fresh air and, in particular, seeing magnificent birds of prey… like falcons, owls and buzzards? If so, then you’re bound to enjoy this clip von der Falknerei Feldberg!

Movie horses have to be able to do a lot of things: follow the cues of their trainers off-set, keep a cool head amidst all the commotion on-set, even the simplest task, like standing still in a meadow, takes skill! A video from dpa [the German Press Agency].

What's cuter than a baby polar bear? Two baby polar bears! The recent birth of twins at the Munich Zoo has caused a media sensation. Watch this report to see for yourself! Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

Mieke is a prematurely born seal pup who was rescued from an island in the North Sea and brought to Seal Centre Friedrichskoog in Schleswig-Holstein. After making tremendous progress under the guidance of her human caretakers, she is now ready to be released into the wild. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

In order for zoo animals to stay healthy, their skin, hooves, and horns need regular upkeep. In this video we visit Safariland Stukenbrock, where zookeepers care for elephants, rhinos, and bison – and develop special bonds with them through the grooming rituals. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

"Squirrel Fairy" Rebecca, a 27-year-old social pedagogue from Magstadt in Baden-Württemberg, is a foster mom for dozens of orphaned and injured squirrels — keeping them fed and well until they’re healthy enough to return to the wild. The volunteer work, in addition to her regular job, is exhausting, but also extremely rewarding.

Believe or not, Germany is home to a fascinating range of wild animals. Learn more about the beavers, wolves, storks, lynxes, and wild bees who live there.

Pets often provide great comfort to aging humans. But what happens to these faithful companions when their owners suddenly pass away? Dogs, cats, and other furry animals have good chances of being rehomed; the story is different for the snakes and lizards at the reptile sanctuary in Munich. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

The honey bee is the oldest livestock species of all and an industrious animal essential to the health of our planet.