Across the Rhine, Neumünster Zoo in Germany sparked outrage by contemplating the euthanasia of some animals to sustain others due to severe revenue shortfalls from COVID-19 lockdowns—a stark indicator of the dire straits facing many animal parks.
Like numerous zoos worldwide, Neumünster Zoo in northern Germany has suffered immensely from pandemic-related closures. With empty enclosures and dwindling funds, the facility risks being unable to feed its animals long-term. In a candid interview, director Verena Kaspari outlined a drastic contingency plan.
“I would rather euthanize some animals than let them starve," she told Die Welt. “In the worst case, we may have to kill animals to feed others. We've prepared a list of those to prioritize.”
Kaspari described this as a deeply unpleasant last resort, acknowledging it wouldn't resolve the zoo's underlying financial woes.
Her remarks ignited widespread controversy across Germany. The national association of zoological gardens, which oversees Neumünster, firmly rejected the plan and urged government intervention. Meanwhile, the zoo launched a public donation drive to navigate the crisis.
Proactive measures are underway at some French zoos, like La Palmyre, which maintains a two-month stockpile of fodder and dry feed. “Recent bird flu outbreaks prepared us for such scenarios,” director Pierre Caillé told Le Parisien. “We have solid management and reserves to maintain top-tier animal care.”
Less fortified parks face steeper challenges. Sainte-Croix Animal Park in Moselle appealed to the government after President Emmanuel Macron's announcement barring large gatherings until mid-July. Department president Patrick Weiten urged Finance Minister Gérald Darmanin on April 15 to establish a dedicated fund “for species preservation and animal welfare.”
Independently, the Amnéville Aquarium launched an online fundraising campaign to secure its future during confinement.
