Aalborg Zoo Requests Public Donations of Small Pets to Feed Predators

Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has issued a public appeal for donations of unwanted small pets, including chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs, to be used as food for its carnivorous animals. The zoo stated that this initiative aims to replicate the natural food chain and promote the well-being of predators like the European lynx by providing whole prey similar to their natural diet.

Donated animals must be healthy and will be humanely euthanized by trained staff before being fed to the predators. The zoo emphasized that this practice ensures natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being for the carnivores.

In addition to small pets, the zoo accepts live horses under specific conditions, including a maximum height of 147 cm and a valid horse passport. Donors can receive a tax deduction based on the horse's weight.

The zoo's appeal has sparked debate, with some individuals expressing support for the initiative, while others have criticized the practice of using pets as feed.

Aalborg Zoo has a history of feeding carnivores with smaller livestock and considers this practice common in Denmark. The zoo maintains that providing naturalistic diets is essential for the health and welfare of its predators.