Aalborg Zoo in Denmark is appealing for donations of healthy small pets, such as chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs, to be euthanised and fed to its predators, including European lynx. The zoo stated that these animals would be 'gently euthanised' by trained staff and consumed whole, ensuring 'nothing goes to waste'. It also said it would 'gratefully' receive live horses for slaughter.
The zoo justified the practice as necessary to 'imitate the animals' natural food chain – for the sake of both animal welfare and professional integrity'. In a social media post, it explained that whole prey resembling wild diets is especially important for the European lynx. Donated horses must have a passport and may qualify for a tax deduction based on weight.
The appeal has drawn mixed reactions. Critics labelled it a 'sick invention', while supporters praised it as a peaceful end for pets. Deputy director Pia Nielsen noted that feeding carnivores with donated livestock is common in Denmark and appreciated by guests and partners.
This follows a similar controversy in Nuremberg, Germany, where a zoo culled 12 healthy Guinea baboons due to overcrowding and reportedly fed them to lions in public view, sparking protests.
