Chapter 1: The Benefits of Donating Christmas Trees

Recently, I learned about a wildlife park in my area that accepts real, undecorated Christmas trees for their animals. It's a delightful way to give back during the holiday season!

Why do these parks want Christmas trees, you might wonder?

"The animals find joy in playing with them, using their horns and antlers on the branches, and enjoying the scent of the fresh pine needles. After the animals have their fun, the leftover parts of the trees are composted and used as mulch around the park come spring," explains a park representative.

Be sure to check if your nearby zoo or animal sanctuary also accepts tree donations.

Section 1.1: Local Zoo Initiatives

African Safari Wildlife Park: A Case Study

On December 26, 2023, the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio, announced they are welcoming Christmas tree donations. This initiative allows eco-conscious residents to sustainably dispose of their trees while providing a post-holiday treat for bison, cattle, alpacas, and deer.

The trees serve as a form of enrichment, which is a method that stimulates natural behaviors and enhances animal well-being.

"Christmas trees are among the best enrichment resources available," stated Kelsey Keller, the park's director. "The animals thoroughly enjoy tossing them around, rubbing their antlers against them, and inhaling the delightful scent of pine. Once the animals are finished, any remaining tree parts are composted and used as mulch in the spring."

Subsection 1.1.1: Donation Guidelines

If you want to contribute, you can drop off your tree at the designated area in the main parking lot of the park. Donations are accepted daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Friday, January 5.

For the safety of the animals, please ensure all decorations, including ornaments, lights, ribbons, and hooks, are removed before donating. Note that artificial trees are not accepted.

Chapter 2: Enriching Zoo Life with Christmas Trees

This video showcases how zoos utilize donated Christmas trees to enrich the lives of their animals, providing both physical and mental stimulation.

In this video, learn how recycled Christmas trees are given a new lease on life at the Cape May County Zoo, contributing to the well-being of various animals.