Shanghai Zoo takes in 1,000 animals a year

From a giant salamander to a spotted deer, and both red and white foxes, Shanghai Zoo has taken in more than 1,000 animals deserted all over the city in the past year alone.

An elderly woman called the zoo recently, saying: "Please take a giant salamander from my home. I bought it because people said eating it would bring me longevity, but it keeps on crying so much that I can't fall asleep."

Shanghai Zoo is responsible for taking in rare species of wild animals from around the city. A zoo keeper surnamed Chen said she and her colleagues drove to the elderly woman's house to collect the giant salamander.

The zoo works closely with wildlife rescue stations in Shanghai. It also receives protected animals confiscated by the police, as well as those found or deserted by the public.

Chen said that from time to time, certain animals are seen as fashionable to have as pets, which often results in specific waves of deserted species. For example, one year saw lots of turtles coming in, while another saw more reptiles and parrots.

The zoo has received 14 foxes in the past year alone, Chen said, adding that most of them were once kept as pets by locals, who found foxes unsuitable as household pets after they reach puberty.

"Male foxes have a strong scent, make lots of noise and can become aggressive," Chen said, explaining why the seemingly cute cubs are far from ideal pets.