Give Your Old Christmas Tree a Wild Second Life at Belfast Zoo

If you’re ready to clear out the last vestiges of Christmas clutter, why not donate your old tree to a truly worthy cause? Belfast Zoo is once again running its fantastic Treecycling scheme, transforming your used Christmas trees into essential enrichment activities for the animals.

This initiative ensures that nothing goes to waste. The donated trees are used by the zoo's residents for scent play, shelter, and even helping them forage for food. The strong pine scent and tactile nature of the branches make the trees extremely popular. Animals that particularly love the donations include the meerkats, who enjoy climbing and exploring the branches, the elephants, and the Barbary lions, who love the strong aroma.

For residents wishing to participate, the donation drop-off point is accessible in the bottom car park and will be clearly signposted. Although the zoo itself is currently closed, you can still drop off your tree for free this week until Sunday, January 11th. Please note that due to the potential for snow and ice, extra care should be taken when driving up the Zoo hill.

It is important to remember that this recycling opportunity is open only to individuals; the zoo cannot accept commercial donations. Any excess trees that the animals don’t use for enrichment won't go to waste either. These will be recycled into chippings used within zoo enclosures and as mulch for flower beds, ensuring the benefit extends across the park.