Overview

• The initiative, in place since 1935, supplies whole carcasses to lions, tigers and European lynxes to mimic natural feeding behaviours and prevent waste.
• Donors receive Danish tax rebates of DKK 100 per rabbit, chicken or guinea pig and DKK 5 per kilogram of horse under the country’s laws.
• So far this year the zoo has accepted 22 horses, 137 rabbits, 53 chickens and 18 guinea pigs, all humanely euthanised by trained staff before being fed to carnivores.
• Pet owners such as Kristina Meincke and Pernille Sohl praise the surrender process as professional and compassionate.
• Conservationists including Dr Mark Jones of Born Free argue the appeal undermines the value of companion animals and risks animal welfare standards.