A zoo made famous by a TV docu-series is facing fans’ fury after it emerged that they fed a zebra stallion to the lions because his breeding days were over.

The truth emerged when big cat keeper Jorg Graeser mistakenly left a sliding door open during feeding time at Leipzig Zoo, Germany.

So instead of eating the zebra – named Franz – in private the lions dragged it into the public viewing area where they tore the corpse apart.

One horrified mum filmed the savage show and complained to bosses at the zoo, made famous by a TV docu-series Elefant, Tiger & Co.

The row only became public, though, when Graeser, 54, mysteriously disappeared from the long-running family telly show.

It was later revealed that he had been demoted from his senior role with big cats to look after rabbits in the petting zoo, according to local media.

The merciless killing has infuriated animal lovers.

German media says Franz – who only arrived at the zoo three years ago – was shot and then tossed into the lions’ den.

One Facebook user Marc Sten said: “Well, the sick society is reflected everywhere.” 

Another named as Lisette Gruetzner added: “This confirms to me once again in never setting a foot in a zoo.”

And one named Greifelt Patrick said: “Why was he shot? Might as well have taken him to another zoo.”

Zoo officials confirmed that Franz had been in perfect health when he was killed but died because zebra breeding targets had changed.

A zoo spokesperson said: “The zebra stallion was eliminated from breeding on the recommendation of the European Conservation Breeding Program and could not remain in the herd.

“The decision was made after careful consideration and consideration of all options, which included committing to an appropriate husbandry.”

She confirmed: “Yes, the zebra was killed for feeding purposes.”

A later statement from the zoo obtained by Newsflash said: “We regret the development and know that Joerg Graeser is an absolute popular figure.

“However, the deployment of personnel and the decision on the location depends on organisational and other issues.

“Joerg Graeser’s change of territory to the South American adventure world is a carefully considered decision that the decision-making bodies did not take lightly.”

Meanwhile, more than 9,000 people have signed a petition requesting the return of the famous zoo keeper to the lions’ enclosure.