Denmark Zoo Invites Public to Donate Pets for Predator Diets

A zoo in northern Denmark is requesting pet owners to donate unwanted animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens, and small horses. The Aalborg Zoo intends to use these donations to feed its carnivorous predators, aiming to replicate a natural food chain. The zoo stated on social media that this approach promotes efficient use of resources while ensuring the nutritional needs and well-being of the animals.

In a post on Facebook, the zoo explained that “chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs form an important part of the diet of our predators.” Accompanying the announcement was an image of a lynx, showcasing the sharp teeth that are characteristic of the zoo’s predatory residents. The zoo further clarified that any donated animals would be “gently euthanized” by trained staff before being provided as food.

Aalborg Zoo is home to several carnivorous species including the Asiatic lion, European lynx, and Sumatran tiger. This public call for donations has sparked intense online debate, with some individuals expressing disapproval over the practice of using pets as prey. Conversely, others support the initiative as a means of maintaining natural feeding behaviors among the zoo’s animals.

The zoo’s deputy director, Pia Nielsen, emphasized that this practice has been a longstanding tradition at Aalborg Zoo. In a statement shared with The Guardian, she noted, “For many years at Aalborg Zoo, we have fed our carnivores with smaller livestock.” Nielsen further explained that offering meat that includes fur and bones is essential for providing a natural diet. “Therefore, it makes sense to allow animals that need to be euthanized for various reasons to be of use in this way,” she added.

In Denmark, the practice of using donated animals for predator diets is not uncommon. Nielsen mentioned that many visitors and partners appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the zoo’s operations by donating animals such as chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, and horses.

The topic of animal euthanasia in Danish zoos has previously attracted criticism. In 2014, the Copenhagen Zoo faced backlash after it euthanized a healthy young giraffe named Marius to prevent inbreeding. Despite an online petition against the decision, the giraffe’s carcass was used partly for research and partly to feed other carnivores. The situation escalated further when the zoo later euthanized four lions to facilitate the introduction of a new male for breeding purposes.

As discussions continue surrounding the ethics of animal feeding practices in zoos, the Aalborg Zoo maintains its position, arguing that their approach is grounded in the principles of animal welfare and sustainability. The zoo has not yet responded to inquiries from CNN regarding the ongoing public response to its donation initiative.