Zoo's request for donations of pets to be fed to predatory animals draws PETA blowback
Share and Follow

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A zoo in Europe is inviting the public to turn unwanted pets into prey, calling for donations of fluffy rabbits and family guinea pigs to be euthanized and fed to its predator residents.

The Aalborg Zoo in Denmark announced the program in a Facebook post, sparking public uproar, including the ire of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

“If you have an animal that, for various reasons, needs to be rehomed, you are welcome to donate it to us. The animals are humanely euthanized by trained staff and then used as feed,” the zoo wrote in the social media post. “In this way, nothing goes to waste — and we ensure natural behavior, proper nutrition, and well-being for our predators.”

The zoo said private individuals and businesses can donate chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs, which organizers said make up an important part of predators’ diets.

guinea pig

The zoo is accepting small animals such as guinea pigs and larger animals for prey donations. (iStock)

PETA added if the Aalborg Zoo “truly cares about animals,” it should focus on protecting species in their natural habitats.

The zoo later turned off the comments on its Facebook post detailing the program, citing “significant international interest.”

“We understand that the post evokes emotions and interest, but hateful and malicious rhetoric is unnecessary — and we encourage keeping a respectful tone,” leadership wrote. “We’re happy to elaborate and answer questions via private messages or email.”

The Aalborg Zoo and PETA did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Child on E-Scooter Hit by UPS Truck in Nocatee

A spokesperson with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said the crash…

Photo: Briton Whose Father-in-Law Allegedly Attempted to Drown Near Disney World

Here is the initial image of the young British mother whose father-in-law…

Israel security cabinet approves plan to occupy Gaza City

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Israel’s security cabinet early…

Facebook ‘Supermom’ Facing Sexual Abuse Allegations Expresses Fear to Alleged Child Victim

Editor’s Note: This story contains discussions of child abuse that may be…

Las Vegas Mother Sues Teens Following Assault on Her Son, Claims Juvenile System Fell Short

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A Las Vegas mother is suing the teenagers she…

Minnesota lawmaker shooting suspect enters not guilty plea

() The man accused of fatally shooting a Minnesota state lawmaker and…

Students of Gary, Indiana Community Schools Return Thursday, Some to Learn from Virtual Teachers

GARY, Ind. (WLS) — it feels like August just started, but already…

Woman accused of treating thousands of patients as a fake nurse

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Authorities in Florida arrested…