Friends of zoos issue statements denouncing death threats in Pavian matter
In the heart of August 2025, a contentious issue continues to unfold at Nuremberg Zoo, following the euthanasia of twelve healthy Guinea baboons at the end of July. The decision was made due to overcrowding, as the group of 43 far exceeded the enclosure capacity of 25 animals.
The zoo had attempted for many years to reduce the population through rehoming and contraception, but with little success. Other zoos were also at capacity, leaving the zoo with no other viable options. The euthanized baboons were humanely put down according to animal welfare regulations, with some remains used for research or museum collections, and others fed to carnivores like lions, tigers, wolves, and martens.
The decision has sparked strong backlash from animal rights groups and the public, with over 100 complaints filed alleging illegal killing. Protesters have staged demonstrations and camps near the zoo, and staff have been subjected to verbal harassment and even death threats. The zoo's director, Dag Encke, and deputy director, Jorg Beckmann, have publicly defended the decision as a necessary last resort.
Amidst the turmoil, the Association of Nuremberg Zoo Friends has spoken out for the first time about the specific case of the baboon euthanasia. The association stands in solidarity with the zoo management and all employees, condemning any form of public defamation and harassment, including death threats. The board and advisory board of the association understand the difficult decisions made by the zoo management and can empathise with their predicament.
The association has emphasised that it understands differing opinions in this matter but wishes for an open discourse regarding the ethical dilemma. They have also rejected opinions that distort facts and are contemptuous of humanity regarding the baboon euthanasia. The killing of healthy animals is a topic that causes outrage and crosses all boundaries, according to the association.
It is important to note that this is not the first time such a practice has been applied in other zoos. Animal rights activists consider the baboon euthanasia practice to be illegal and have filed a criminal complaint. However, the association has not previously expressed a stance on the legality of baboon euthanasia in zoos.
In conclusion, the Nuremberg Zoo's culling of healthy baboons due to space constraints has sparked ongoing legal, ethical, and public relations controversies. The zoo maintains the decision was unavoidable for animal welfare reasons, while activists seek accountability and alternatives to lethal population control. Staff harassment has added a troubling social dimension to the dispute. The Association of Nuremberg Zoo Friends stands clearly with the zoo regarding the baboon euthanasia, advocating for open discourse and an end to the harassment of those involved.
[1] Zoo euthanizes healthy baboons due to overcrowding [2] Nuremberg Zoo faces backlash over baboon culling [3] Animal rights activists file criminal complaint over Nuremberg Zoo baboon euthanasia [4] Nuremberg Zoo defends baboon euthanasia practice [5] Nuremberg Zoo staff face death threats over baboon culling
[1] The Nuremberg Zoo's decision to euthanize healthy Guinea baboons due to overcrowding has raised questions about home-and-garden management, drawing controversy and criticism from animal rights groups and the public.
[2] Amidst calls for accountability and alternatives to lethal population control, the Association of Nuremberg Zoo Friends has supported the zoo, advocating for an open lifestyle discussion about the ethical dilemma and an end to the harassment of zoo staff.
