Danish Zoo Accepts Donated Pets to Feed Captive Predators

As of August 4th, 2025, Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has launched an unusual pet donation program. The zoo is asking the public to donate small pets, not for rehoming, but to be used as food for its captive predators.

In a recent Facebook post, the zoo explained that this effort is meant to mimic the natural food chain of the animals housed there. Aalborg Zoo maintains that this practice supports "animal welfare and professional integrity," and assures that any donated pets will be "gently euthanized" by trained staff before being used as fodder for the zoo's carnivores.

The zoo has listed rabbits, guinea pigs, horses, and chickens as examples of suitable donations. According to the post, "If you have a healthy animal that needs to be given away for various reasons, feel free to donate it to us." The zoo claims that this approach ensures "natural behavior, nutrition and well-being of our predators," as nothing goes to waste.

Aalborg Zoo, founded in 1935, is home to over 1,500 animals across 126 species. The facility is known for its focus on conservation, sustainability, and education, and was the first zoo in Denmark to receive an environmental certificate.