PORT CLINTON, Ohio — There are plenty of Christmas tree recycling options, but one northwest Ohio option is perfect for animal lovers and anyone looking to continue the giving spirit.
If you donate to the African Safari Wildlife Park, your live Christmas tree could be a snack for a furry friend.
This is your chance to regift your tree to animals, while also taking advantage of a safe and nature-friendly way to get rid of a holiday staple that you no longer need.
"It is a great way for the community to get rid of their tree without it going to a landfill and the animals get to enjoy it a second time," said Kelsey Keller, African Safari Wildlife Park director.
If you have a cat, you might know how hard it is to keep your companion away from the Christmas tree. As it turns out, the tree-loving mentality spreads across the animal kingdom.
The wildlife park is home to bison, camels, zebras, deer and more. Keller said the animals run, jump, eat and play with the trees.
"We have about 300 animals in the park that love to eat those pine trees and they rub on them, scratch on them, you name it," Keller said.
She said when you donate, you help their staff provide enrichment and animal-friendly activities that encourage wellness. Plus, it is eco-friendly as it is a way to return nature back to nature.
"They love them they will take all the needles and bark off until it's just a tree skeleton. It's a really neat thing to see. When we do give them to the animals, let's say the camels, they run around and jump with them," African Safari Wildlife Park General Manager Josh Adkins said. "It's a lot of fun."
You can donate live trees any day of the week between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from now until Jan. 5.
"Make sure you take off the decorations, the ornaments the lights and grandma's star," Adkins said. "Take everything off, bring your trees in, and we will double-check them. Then we take them out to the animals."
Trees can be dropped off at the park's main parking lot located at 267 South Lightner Rd. in Port Clinton.
RELATED: LIST: Here's how to recycle or dispose of your Christmas trees and lights in northwest Ohio
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