Zoo will let you name a cockroach after your ex and feed it to an animal

Some people might not be looking forward to this Valentine's Day, but this quirky idea from a zoo may cheer you up.

San Antonio Zoo is bringing back its viral fundraiser that sees people make a donation to the zoo in exchange for naming a cockroach, piece of veg or even a rodent after their ex.

See a bug named 'Mark' being eaten by a possum and donate to a good cause? What's not to love?

Detailing the return of 'Cry Me a Cockroach', San Antonio Zoo's website says: "Be part of the global sensation and ex-terminate your past and support a noble cause with the Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser.

"Symbolically name a roach, rat, or veggie after your ex or not-so-special someone and San Antonio Zoo will help squash your past, a true heartbreak healer, by feeding your selection to an animal resident.

"This fundraiser received international attention last year, this year, it promises to be even more sensational."

Jilted lovers are able to pick the option to donate $5, $10, or $25 to the zoo in exchange for an edible item being named after their ex.

It was first introduced in 2020 and has continued to be popular ever since.

Back in 2022, it was reported that people from all 50 US states and more than 30 countries submitted their ex's names. There were over 8,000 donations in total.

Xiaoan Chen was one of those thousands of people to do so and chatted to the BBC about why.

She said: "As soon as I saw the link, I was like: 'OK, isn't there a better thing to offer myself a Valentine's gift than naming my exes name on a roach?'"

"I couldn't find anything better," Chen went on. "After I did that, I felt so much relief."

She continued to say she felt 'reborn' and that she was 'ready to forget everything'.

In 2022, some of the most submitted names were Jacob and Sarah, while 2023 saw an increase in Matts, Ashleys and Jessicas.

San Antonio Zoo shared an amusing clip of a member of staff dressed as a cockroach to its TikTok last year as a way of advertising the unique fundraiser.

Someone replied to the clip: "Are we limited to the number we can name? I have a laundry list."

Another person quipped: "Umm, does it have to be an ex? What about my boss’s name? Asking for a friend…"

Whoever you decide to nominate, at least you know your money's going to a good cause.

If this sounds like something that will help heal your broken heart this Valentine's Day, you can donate here.

Topics: Animals, US News, Sex and Relationships

Niamh Shackleton

Niamh Shackleton is an experienced journalist for UNILAD, specialising in topics including mental health and showbiz, as well as anything Henry Cavill and cat related. She has previously worked for OK! Magazine, Caters and Kennedy.

@niamhshackleton