"Suddenly, chaos had a name": Malte Zierden on his ADHD diagnosis - How a Berlin pigeon inspired a global animal welfare movement
Malte Zierden has become one of Germany's most recognisable voices for animal welfare. With over a million followers across Instagram and TikTok, he uses his platform to highlight animal suffering and fundraise for global protection projects. His journey began with an unlikely friendship—a city pigeon named Oskar.
Zierden's activism took root after he befriended Oskar, a pigeon living in urban Berlin. This connection inspired him to create the first shelter space dedicated to the bird, sparking a wider mission. Since then, he has initiated or supported at least three major animal welfare projects: a shelter in Berehowe, Ukraine, built in 2024 with Notpfote e.V., which now houses 300 dogs, 50 cats, and other animals; a rainforest protection initiative in Peru, where fundraising secured land managed by Wilderness International; and a protection project in Uganda.
His approach centres on compassion, viewing animals as sentient individuals with their own stories. Beyond activism, Zierden advocates for neurodiversity awareness. Diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, he hosted the ZDF documentary *RE:TURN – ADHD as a Gamechanger*, exploring how his brain works differently, not poorly. He also champions visibility for invisible conditions, linking his advocacy for animals and humans alike. Zierden's social media campaigns have raised significant funds and public attention for animal welfare. His dream is a world where humans and animals meet as equals, with safe spaces for all creatures to live free from harm.
From a single pigeon to shelters across continents, Zierden's work has created tangible change. His projects in Ukraine, Peru, and Uganda now provide refuge for hundreds of animals. Alongside his activism, he continues to challenge perceptions of neurodivergence, using his influence to drive both animal welfare and social awareness forward.
