This initiative aims to replicate the natural diets of the zoo's predators, including lynxes, lions, and tigers.
Danish Zoo Seeks Donations of Unwanted Pets to Nourish Predators
Danish Zoo Seeks Donations of Unwanted Pets to Nourish Predators
Denmark's Aalborg Zoo invites pet owners to donate healthy animals for an unconventional feeding program.
Aalborg Zoo in Denmark is turning to the public for a unique and somewhat controversial initiative: the donation of healthy, unwanted pets to feed its predators. The zoo issued a call for live chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs, which will be "gently euthanised" by trained staff. Furthermore, horse owners can also donate their horses, potentially qualifying for a tax deduction in the process.
In a recent Instagram post, Aalborg Zoo emphasized its commitment to mimicking the natural food chain for its carnivorous inhabitants. The zoo indicated that smaller livestock constitutes a vital part of the diets of its predators, particularly for the Eurasian lynx, as these creatures hunt similar prey in the wild. Other apex predators at the zoo include lions and tigers, who also benefit from this feeding program.
Pet owners can bring in small animals on weekdays without an appointment, with limitations of up to four donations at a time. Detailed information regarding horse donations is provided on the zoo's website, which specifies the requirement of a horse passport and stipulations regarding recent health treatments.
Pia Nielsen, the zoo's deputy director, highlighted the long-standing practice of providing carnivores with a diet inclusive of fur and bones to replicate their natural hunting behaviors. "It makes sense to allow animals that need to be euthanised for various reasons to be of use in this way," she noted. This practice is a common and accepted approach in Denmark, according to Nielsen, with many guests and partners supportive of the initiative.
In contrast, animal welfare organizations have previously raised concerns regarding zoo practices, including boycotts for great ape welfare and outcry over culling practices in other zoos due to overcrowding. Nevertheless, Aalborg Zoo continues with its feeding program, aiming to ensure that its predators enjoy a diet aligned with their natural instincts.
In a recent Instagram post, Aalborg Zoo emphasized its commitment to mimicking the natural food chain for its carnivorous inhabitants. The zoo indicated that smaller livestock constitutes a vital part of the diets of its predators, particularly for the Eurasian lynx, as these creatures hunt similar prey in the wild. Other apex predators at the zoo include lions and tigers, who also benefit from this feeding program.
Pet owners can bring in small animals on weekdays without an appointment, with limitations of up to four donations at a time. Detailed information regarding horse donations is provided on the zoo's website, which specifies the requirement of a horse passport and stipulations regarding recent health treatments.
Pia Nielsen, the zoo's deputy director, highlighted the long-standing practice of providing carnivores with a diet inclusive of fur and bones to replicate their natural hunting behaviors. "It makes sense to allow animals that need to be euthanised for various reasons to be of use in this way," she noted. This practice is a common and accepted approach in Denmark, according to Nielsen, with many guests and partners supportive of the initiative.
In contrast, animal welfare organizations have previously raised concerns regarding zoo practices, including boycotts for great ape welfare and outcry over culling practices in other zoos due to overcrowding. Nevertheless, Aalborg Zoo continues with its feeding program, aiming to ensure that its predators enjoy a diet aligned with their natural instincts.
