Nuremberg Zoo in Germany is facing mounting public backlash and legal scrutiny after it culled 12 Guinea baboons due to overcrowding — dismembering six of them and feeding them to carnivores such as lions and tigers. The move, which zoo officials said was necessary and scientifically justified, has triggered widespread outcry from animal rights groups and members of the public.
According to Deputy Zoo Director Jörg Beckmann, the zoo had long struggled with overcrowding in the baboon enclosure, which held more than 40 animals — far exceeding its 25-animal capacity. After failed attempts to rehome the surplus baboons and unsuccessful contraception measures, the zoo opted for culling as a “last resort.”
Six of the culled baboons were used as feed for predators in the zoo, while the skeletons of four others are being preserved for museum display. Two baboons died during sedation and were sent for pathology.
However, what has especially disturbed critics is the zoo’s admission that the baboons were decapitated and had their hands and feet removed. Beckmann explained that the skulls and brains were separated for scientific purposes, and the limbs were removed “out of respect for visitors” who would see the animals being fed.
“We continue to be transparent and stand by that decision,” Beckmann said, noting that whole-animal feeding promotes dental and behavioural health in carnivores, mirroring natural hunting conditions.
Animal welfare groups, however, have condemned the killings as inhumane. Hundreds of criminal complaints have been filed, and the Nuremberg-Fürth public prosecutor’s office is now reviewing the case. Activist group Animal Rebellion has also launched a protest camp outside the zoo, calling for an end to further killings and the zoo’s breeding programme.
In a statement, Nuremberg Zoo acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision. “We understand that many people are confused, affected, or angry,” the zoo said, adding that peaceful protest would be respected.
Despite the backlash, zoo officials maintain that culling was unavoidable due to limited space, failed rehoming efforts, and the long-term need to maintain a genetically healthy and reproducing baboon population as part of its conservation goals.
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