Danish Zoo Seeks Donations of Unwanted Pets to Nourish Predators

Aalborg Zoo in Denmark has made a controversial appeal for donations of live chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs as part of its initiative to feed predators while imitating their natural food chain. The zoo claims that these smaller animals are "gently euthanised" by trained staff, ensuring humane treatment. The initiative also welcomes live horses, providing potential tax benefits to donors who meet specific criteria. The zoo emphasizes the importance of a natural diet for its carnivores, including the Eurasian lynx, lions, and tigers. They assure the public that this practice is widely accepted and beneficial for both the animals and the zoo's operations. Concerned groups, however, continue to critique zoos over animal welfare issues, underscoring the complexities of such practices in modern zoological institutions.

The small animals can be donated on weekdays, with limitations on the number accepted at a time. Detailed guidelines are provided for horse donors, ensuring the process is both regulated and beneficial. The zoo's deputy director, Pia Nielsen, highlighted the necessity of providing a diet that closely resembles what these animals would eat in the wild, indicating that this practice has long been part of their feeding strategy.

While the initiative has been embraced by many in Denmark as a way to contribute positively to the zoo community, it raises ethical questions in the broader context of animal welfare and the role of zoos in society. As public sentiment around animal care continues to evolve, the Aalborg Zoo's approach stands as a focal point for discussion on conservation, responsibility, and the delicate balance of human and animal needs.