Danish Zoo Seeks Pet Donations for Predators’ Natural Diet
A zoo in northern Denmark is making headlines for its unusual request to pet owners. The Aalborg Zoo is seeking donations of unwanted pets, including guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens, and even small horses, not for exhibition, but to feed its carnivorous predators. This initiative aims to replicate the natural food chain, ensuring that these animals contribute to the well-being of the zoo’s inhabitants.
The zoo announced its appeal through a post on Facebook, explaining that animals like chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs are vital components of the diets of its predators. “That way, nothing goes to waste — and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition and well-being of our predators,” the post stated, accompanied by an image of a lynx displaying its sharp teeth.
On its official website, Aalborg Zoo clarified that the donated pets would be “gently euthanized” by trained staff before being used as food. The zoo is home to various carnivorous species, including the Asiatic lion, European lynx, and Sumatran tiger.
This approach has sparked significant debate online, with voices on both sides. Some individuals have expressed concern over the morality of using pets as prey, while others commend the zoo for its commitment to maintaining natural feeding practices.
In a statement reported by The Guardian, Pia Nielsen, the deputy director of Aalborg Zoo, emphasized that this practice has been in place for years and is a common procedure in Denmark. “For many years at Aalborg Zoo, we have fed our carnivores with smaller livestock. When keeping carnivores, it is necessary to provide them with meat, preferably with fur, bones, etc. to give them as natural a diet as possible,” Nielsen explained.
She added, “Therefore, it makes sense to allow animals that need to be euthanized for various reasons to be of use in this way. In Denmark, this practice is common, and many of our guests and partners appreciate the opportunity to contribute. The livestock we receive as donations are chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, and horses.”
The initiative at Aalborg Zoo is not without precedent in Denmark. In 2014, the Copenhagen Zoo faced intense scrutiny after it euthanized a healthy giraffe named Marius to prevent inbreeding. Despite public outcry and a petition against the decision, Marius was euthanized, and part of his carcass was used to feed the zoo’s carnivorous animals, including lions and tigers. This incident reignited discussions about animal management practices in zoos.
In the wake of these events, the public’s reaction to Aalborg Zoo’s current request highlights a complex intersection of ethics, animal welfare, and wildlife conservation. As conversations continue, the zoo’s commitment to replicating natural diets for its predators remains a focal point in the ongoing debate about the role of zoos in modern society.
CNN has reached out to Aalborg Zoo for further comment on this initiative.
