Animal welfare advocacy in Denmark

In Denmark, environmental and animal welfare organizations, including Danmarks Naturfredningsforening and Dyrenes Beskyttelse, have initiated calls for changes to livestock and wildlife management practices.

In late September, these groups advocated for a ban on breeding and releasing pheasants for hunting purposes. Critics of the practice argue it is ethically unsound, noting that research from Aarhus University indicates more than half of released pheasants die from non-hunting causes within their first year. While the Danish Hunters' Association defends current practices, some technical reports suggest up to 1.5 million birds may be released annually.

By late October, the focus shifted toward poultry production. A broad coalition of seven Danish political parties, including the Moderates and the Conservative People's Party, is moving toward a ban on the production and import of ‘turbo chickens.’ These fast-growing birds reach slaughter weight in roughly 33 days, often resulting in bone problems, heart failure, and organ failure.

While some retailers, such as REMA 1000 and nemlig.com, have already transitioned to slower-growing breeds, the proposed legislation seeks to establish a concrete end date for extreme breeding across the industry. Supporters are also calling for stricter import regulations and increased space for poultry. This movement follows similar efforts in Norway, which aims to end turbo chicken production by 2027.