Animals at the Guadalajara Zoo in Mexico are predicting the winners of selected 2026 FIFA World Cup matches [1, 2].
The activity serves as a light-hearted entertainment stunt for visitors while providing mental stimulation for the zoo's residents. Staff members said the exercise allows the zoo to hedge bets on the tournament results [2].
Veterinarian Ivan Reynoso oversaw the process, involving a variety of species to pick the winning teams. Reynoso said the activity "stimulates many senses for the animals" [2].
Several specific predictions have already been made by the animals [3]. The elephants chose Mexico over South Africa [3]. Meanwhile, the gorillas selected Uruguay over Spain [3].
Other predictions included a puma picking South Korea over the Czech Republic [3]. The giraffes chose the Democratic Republic of the Congo over Colombia [3].
The animals made these selections on a makeshift football field located within the zoo grounds [2]. These predictions began during the opening match of the tournament [1, 2].
Reynoso said the animals have chosen the winners of several matches through these interactions [4]. The event blends the global excitement of the World Cup with wildlife engagement, creating a unique attraction for the city of Guadalajara [1, 2].
“"It stimulates many senses for the animals."”
This event reflects a common trend of using animal behavior for novelty sports predictions, similar to the famous 'psychic octopus' of previous tournaments. While the predictions lack scientific basis, the zoo uses the activity as a form of environmental enrichment to prevent boredom and stimulate the cognitive functions of its captive animals.
