Knowledge According to Zurich researchers, zoos should deliberately kill surplus animals
According to Zurich researchers, zoos should focus on targeted killing. In this way, they could prevent overcrowding, preserve their reproductive populations and improve their carbon footprint, the scientists argued.
08.01.2025, 10:56
SDA
Until now, the number of animals in zoos has mostly been controlled by reproduction, explained the University of Zurich (UZH) in a press release on Wednesday.
However, in a statement published in the journal "Proceedings" of the FUS National Academy of Sciences ("PNAS"), a research team led by UZH now argues for a rethink. Instead of controlling the breeding of their animals, zoos should kill surplus animals.
Zoo retirement home
The researchers argue that widespread contraceptive practices are changing the age profile of animal populations. As a result, zoo populations are getting older and older. This jeopardizes one of the basic principles of zoos: the preservation of their own populations. There is no need for a collection of geriatric animals or veterinarians who deal with palliative care, said co-author Andrew Abraham from Aarhus University in the press release.
Furthermore, reproduction is a basic need of animals. The scientists also argue that zoos could promote public understanding of the natural life cycle of animals through targeted killing.
In addition, killed animals could be used to feed predators. According to the researchers, this own meat supply would improve the climate balance.
