Danish Zoo Seeks Unwanted Pets to Nourish Predators

Aalborg Zoo in Denmark is calling on the community to provide donations of live pets such as chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs to ensure its predators receive a natural diet, thereby enhancing their well-being and mimicking their wild food sources.

In a bold and unusual initiative, Aalborg Zoo has invited the public to donate their healthy unwanted pets to support the dietary needs of its carnivorous inhabitants. This unique campaign aims to provide fresh food sources for animals like the Eurasian lynx, lions, and tigers while encouraging responsible pet ownership. The zoo's deputy director, Pia Nielsen, articulated the importance of offering predators a diet that resembles what they would hunt in their natural habitats, emphasizing that small livestock is an essential component of these diets.

Proponents of the scheme can contribute live chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs, which trained staff will "gently euthanize" in a humane manner. The zoo also allows contributions of live horses, provided they possess a horse passport and have not been treated for illnesses in the past month. In return, horse donors may qualify for tax deductions, fostering a sense of community involvement in animal care.

This initiative has sparked mixed reactions among animal welfare advocates, with some organizations like Born Free urging a boycott of the zoo due to greater concerns about animal welfare practices. Nonetheless, Aalborg Zoo maintains that this practice aligns with common practices in Denmark and acknowledges that many patrons appreciate the opportunity to help feed the animals.

As the public begins to respond to the auction, donations are accepted on weekdays, capped at four animals without appointment. The zoo aims to bolster the health of its predators while also addressing unwanted pet situations in the community.