What Is Exotic Manure? Sourcing and Using Zoo Manure Compost

Gardens and animals share a close history. Well-composted animal manure benefits soil and plants. "Zoo poo" or exotic manure offers similar benefits. What is exotic manure?

What Is Exotic Manure?

Historically, oxen/mules tilled and fertilized simultaneously. Human waste was once used (unthinkable today). Modern organic gardening uses pig, steer, cow, horse, rabbit, turkey, chicken, poultry manure.

Exotic manure = zoo manure compost = herbivore manure from zoos/rehab centers: elephant, rhino, giraffe, camel, wildcat, ostrich, zebra.

Zoo Manure Compost

Most manures must be aged/composted (except sheep) before garden use. Fresh manure's high nitrogen harms plants and encourages weeds.

Many zoos compost exotic manure with hay, straw, wood shavings into nutrient-dense organic soil amendment. Benefits: water/nutrient retention, improved texture, breaks up heavy ground, adds biodiversity. Use like traditional manures—soil amendment, top dress, fertilizer tea.

Where to Get Zoo Manure

Near a zoo/composting facility? Buy by truckload. Proceeds support animal care—your garden benefits, animals benefit.

Contact local animal facilities about composted manure sales.