Aalborg Zoo in Denmark is embarking on an unusual yet pragmatic initiative by inviting the community to donate healthy unwanted pets as a food source for its predatory animals. The zoo is seeking donations of live chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs, which are reported to be "gently euthanised" by trained personnel prior to being fed to the carnivores. Additionally, horse owners can also contribute, potentially receiving a tax deduction in return.
The zoo underscored its obligation to replicate the natural food chain essential for the welfare of animals like the Eurasian lynx, amongst others. By sourcing smaller livestock donations, the zoo strives to offer diets that closely reflect what these predators would encounter in the wild. Other animals on the menu for these carnivores include larger predators such as lions and tigers.
Individuals wishing to donate smaller pets can do so on weekdays, with restrictions of up to four animals at a time without the need for a prior appointment. For horse donations, several stipulations apply including the requirement for a horse passport and the animal must not have received treatment for illnesses within the last 30 days to qualify.
Pia Nielsen, the zoo's deputy director, elaborated on their animal husbandry approach, emphasizing the importance of providing a meat-rich diet complete with fur, bones, and other natural components. This practice not only serves the dietary needs of the carnivores but also allows for a responsible use of animals that might otherwise be euthanised for various reasons. The initiative has garnered support from many community members and partners, highlighting a growing trend in Denmark towards sustainable wildlife care practices.
The zoo underscored its obligation to replicate the natural food chain essential for the welfare of animals like the Eurasian lynx, amongst others. By sourcing smaller livestock donations, the zoo strives to offer diets that closely reflect what these predators would encounter in the wild. Other animals on the menu for these carnivores include larger predators such as lions and tigers.
Individuals wishing to donate smaller pets can do so on weekdays, with restrictions of up to four animals at a time without the need for a prior appointment. For horse donations, several stipulations apply including the requirement for a horse passport and the animal must not have received treatment for illnesses within the last 30 days to qualify.
Pia Nielsen, the zoo's deputy director, elaborated on their animal husbandry approach, emphasizing the importance of providing a meat-rich diet complete with fur, bones, and other natural components. This practice not only serves the dietary needs of the carnivores but also allows for a responsible use of animals that might otherwise be euthanised for various reasons. The initiative has garnered support from many community members and partners, highlighting a growing trend in Denmark towards sustainable wildlife care practices.
