Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has issued an unusual appeal, requesting donations of small, healthy but unwanted pets to be used as food for its predators.
The zoo is seeking guinea pigs, rabbits, and chickens that are no longer wanted by their owners, assuring that they will be “gently euthanised” by trained staff before being fed to the predators.
The zoo’s initiative aims to mimic the natural food chain of its animals, promoting animal welfare and professional integrity.
According to the zoo, these small animals form an essential part of the diet of its predators, such as the Eurasian lynx, which requires whole prey resembling its natural wild habitat.
In a Facebook post, the zoo explained that it is interested in receiving donations of healthy animals that need to be given away for various reasons.
After being euthanised, the pets will be used as fodder, eaten whole by the predators.
The zoo emphasizes that this approach ensures natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being for its predators, with nothing going to waste.
In addition to small pets, the zoo is also seeking horses that have not been treated for illness in the past 30 days and have an eligible ‘horse passport’.
The zoo’s deputy director, Pia Nielsen, has defended the request, stating that the practice is common in Denmark and appreciated by many of the zoo’s guests and partners.
The request has sparked controversy, with many criticizing the zoo’s callout on social media.
Despite this, the zoo remains committed to providing its carnivores with a natural diet, preferably with fur and bones.
For those interested in donating their pets, the zoo’s website provides further information and guidelines.