Aalborg Zoo Seeks Public Donations of Small Pets and Horses to Feed Predators

Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has announced a program inviting the public to donate small pets and horses to serve as food for its captive predators. The zoo emphasizes its commitment to replicating the natural food chain to promote animal welfare and professional integrity.

"In zoos, we have a responsibility to imitate the natural food chain of the animals — in terms of both animal welfare and professional integrity," Aalborg Zoo stated in a social media post.

The zoo specifies that chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs are integral to the diet of predators like the European lynx, which require whole prey similar to their natural hunting patterns. Donated animals must be healthy and are humanely euthanized by trained staff before being used as fodder. This practice aims to prevent waste and ensure the natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being of the predators.

Donations of rabbits, guinea pigs, and chickens are accepted on weekdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., with a limit of four animals per visit. For larger donations, the zoo requests prior arrangement. Additionally, the zoo accepts horses under specific conditions: they must not have been treated for illness in the past 30 days, must meet size restrictions, and possess a horse passport. Donors of horses may be eligible for a tax deduction based on the animal's value.

The zoo notes that its needs vary throughout the year, and there may be a waiting list for donations. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the zoo for more information.