Danish Zoo Seeks Pet Donations as Predator Food

Aalborg Zoo Requests Unusual Donations

Aalborg Zoo in Denmark has made a controversial appeal to the public, asking for donations of small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and chickens to serve as food for their predators. The zoo announced this initiative on their Facebook page, explaining that it helps replicate natural food chains for animal welfare.

Strict Health Requirements

The zoo requires all donated animals to be healthy. Trained staff will euthanize them humanely before feeding them to predators like tigers and lions. According to the zoo, this practice ensures "natural behavior, nutrition, and welfare" for carnivorous species while minimizing waste.

Public Reaction and Horse Donations

The announcement sparked heated debate on social media, with some calling the request "perverse and humiliating," while others shared positive donation experiences. The program also accepts horses under specific conditions: they must be under 147cm tall, have valid passports, and be delivered alive. Donors can claim tax deductions at 5 DKK (€0.67) per kilogram.

Conservation Context

Founded in 1935, Aalborg Zoo houses over 1,500 animals across 126 species. The zoo actively participates in global conservation programs and rainforest preservation initiatives in Ecuador. This donation program aligns with their philosophy of maintaining natural predator behaviors through biologically appropriate feeding practices.