“If you have an animal that has to leave here for various reasons, feel free to donate it to us.”

A Danish zoo has drawn international consideration and criticism after posting a Facebook put up asking the general public to donate undesirable animals to feed their carnivores. Aalborg Zoo, situated in northern Denmark, shared the message on July 31, 2025, explaining that prey like chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs might assist simulate a extra pure food plan for predators such because the European lynx.

Featured Video

While some praised the zoo’s transparency, many discovered the request disturbing. Nevertheless, the zoo maintained that these feeding practices have been normal in skilled zoos and contributed to the well-being of predator species.

Danish zoo asks for pet donations to feed their predators

The now-viral put up inspired homeowners of small animals that they might not take care of to think about donation. According to the translated message, any animal acquired would first be euthanized by educated employees earlier than being supplied as meals. The zoo framed the initiative as each ecologically accountable and helpful for predator welfare.

“In zoos, we have a responsibility to mimic the animals’ natural food chain – for the sake of both animal welfare and professional integrity,” the translated put up learn. “This way, nothing goes to waste – and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition, and well-being for our predators.”

Importantly, the zoo emphasised that these whole-prey feedings are a part of a broader mission to uphold the care of their captive animals. The put up included a hyperlink to detailed tips for donors.

Aalborg Zoo responds to intense backlash

Although the intention might have been sensible, the response it generated was something however calm. As reactions poured in, many Facebook customers expressed outrage over the thought of pets ending up as zoo feed. One commenter criticized the zoo’s request as “disgusting,” including that the zoo employees had “no heart whatsoever.”

Others drew the same line, with one Facebook consumer stating, “This is a cheap publicity stunt. You will have access to plenty whole body animals to feed your animals from the billions that are slaughtered each year. So you add to this number in is a completely unnecessary way to bring in customers for a bit of a show.”

More of us echoed comparable sentiments, arguing that the follow crossed an ethical line. Some even started urging others to boycott the zoo altogether.

Soon after, Aalborg Zoo up to date the Facebook put up. Although it stood by the unique put up, they closed the feedback resulting from what they described as “hateful and malicious rhetoric.” The zoo inspired additional questions through personal message or e-mail, hoping to redirect the emotional response towards extra constructive dialog.

The web is chaotic—however we’ll break it down for you in a single each day e-mail. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s publication right here.