PORT CLINTON, Ohio, December 27, 2022 — Christmas Day has come and gone, and the time to take down holiday decorations has arrived. Eco-conscious Ohioans looking to sustainably dispose of their Christmas trees can bring them to African Safari Wildlife Park as a post-holiday treat for bison, cattle, alpacas and deer.

The trees will be used as enrichment, which is defined as a stimulant that encourages natural behavior to improve animal wellness.

“Christmas trees are some of the best enrichment items out there,” said Park director Kelsey Keller. “The animals love to toss them around, rub their horns and antlers on them, and smell the fragrant pine needles. When the animals are done playing, the remnants of the trees are composted and used as mulch around the Park in the spring.”

Trees can be dropped off in the designated area of the Park’s main parking lot. Donations will be accepted daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Saturday, January 7.

For animal safety, lights, ornaments, hooks and other potentially hazardous items should be removed from trees prior to donation. Artificial trees will not be accepted.