Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has reminded locals they can donate certain small pets, notably rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens, which will be “gently euthanized” by trained staff and used to feed its carnivores. The zoo says it’s about welfare and realism in captivity: “In zoos, we have a responsibility to imitate the natural food chain of the animals, in terms of both animal welfare and professional integrity.”
Why the practice exists (and who benefits)
Keepers and vets argue that offering whole animals (bones, fur and all) provides nutrients and enrichment conventional mince can’t, encouraging natural behaviours in predators from lynx to lions. It’s not a new idea in Denmark, but spelling it out on social media made a long‑standing practice suddenly very public.
Outrage, ethics and the fine print
The post sparked fierce debate: some called it “bizarre and wrong”, others saw pragmatic honesty about how zoos feed carnivores. The zoo tightened online comments as the row escalated. On the ground, there are boundaries: only healthy animals are accepted; small pets are surrendered at set times; and larger donations such as horses come with strict conditions, with donors in some cases eligible for a tax deduction under Danish rules. Aalborg Zoo, Denmark, zoos, animal welfare, carnivores, whole‑prey diet, pets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, horses, euthanasia, Facebook post, controversy
