Danish Zoo Seeks Unwanted Pets to Feed Predators

Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has issued a public appeal for donations of unwanted small pets, including guinea pigs, rabbits, and chickens, 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 such as the European lynx. Donated animals will be humanely euthanized by trained staff before being fed to the predators. The zoo also accepts horses under specific conditions, including size restrictions and health requirements. Donors may be eligible for a tax deduction based on the animal's value. This practice has been in place for many years at Aalborg Zoo and is common in Denmark. The appeal has sparked mixed reactions online, with some individuals expressing concern over the use of pets as prey, while others support the zoo's efforts to maintain natural feeding behaviors.