Fidda, an extremely endangered Barbary lioness, was recently zoothanized at Belfast Zoo following the death of her sister, Thheiba. Despite being old, Fidda was healthy, and the decision to put her down was made out of concern for her potential loneliness. This tragic incident raises crucial questions about the ethical practices followed in zoos when dealing with endangered species.  https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/zoo/news-and-events/news/thheiba-and-fidda?fbclid=IwdGRjcAQZtoxjbGNrBBm2iWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHh31D9W3zAm8VelqBiCOXRCFvSCOtK2jW8txGL4gZb6YS58l0W7GJwBp2wkt_aem_vXJnFIDQ03wvA_bwdlSHHw
https://strapi.eaza.net/uploads/2023_04_EAZA_Management_Euthanasia_Culling_Statement_4779d7a058.pdf
Barbary lions are extinct in the wild, with Thheiba and Fidda being key contributors to conservation efforts. They were part of the EAZA Ex-Situ Programme (EEP), and their offspring have played a significant role in the survival of their sub-species. Losing a healthy individual like Fibba not only undermines these conservation efforts but also poses a serious ethical dilemma.
https://strapi.eaza.net/uploads/EAZA_Population_Management_Manual_V6_2_67db7a6627.pdf
Zoothanasia, the practice of euthanizing zoo animals without pressing medical reasons, is troublesome, especially for species on the brink of extinction. Instead of resorting to such irreversible measures, zoos must explore all alternative options. These could include finding suitable companions, improving enclosure conditions to promote social interactions, and implementing advanced behavioral enrichment programs.

We understand that loneliness can be detrimental to animal welfare, but the answer should not be to prematurely end their lives. There needs to be a shift in how we approach this issue to ensure that no more healthy animals like Fibba suffer the same fate. Zoos must implement standardized guidelines and have consultations with multiple experts before making such a grave decision.
Zoos are one of the biggest proponents of killing animals, including a request for farmers to continue to kill male chicks so they can be fed to zoo animals.  https://strapi.eaza.net/uploads/2023_08_EAZA_Position_Statement_on_the_protection_of_feed_animals_with_focus_on_day_old_chicks_d50cd47028.pdf
We call upon Belfast Zoo and other zoos worldwide to revise their policies on animal euthanasia. Let's advocate for thoughtful and ethical treatment of all zoo inhabitants, especially those who are endangered. Each life is precious, and with the right measures, these magnificent creatures can continue to thrive and assist conservation efforts.

Please sign this petition to halt zoothanasia of healthy animals and demand ethical reforms in our zoos. Let’s be the voice for those who cannot speak and ensure a future where endangered species are preserved, not prematurely ended.