RFB for Feeder Animals

The Audubon Nature Institute is seeking qualified suppliers through a Request for Bid (RFB) for feeder animals to support its facilities in New Orleans, Louisiana. The procurement encompasses a diverse range of frozen feeder animals, including mice (in pinkie, fuzzie, hopper, and adult sizes), rats (small, medium, and large), rabbits (small, medium, and large), guinea pigs, quail (day-old and jumbo), and chickens (extra small). Estimated annual quantities vary from 50 to 52,000 units depending on the specific animal type. The bid must be submitted by Tuesday, August 26, 2025, either electronically through BidNet Direct or in sealed envelopes to the Procurement and Risk Management Department at 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans. The contract will be awarded on an all-or-none basis to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with an initial three-year term from September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, and options for two additional one-year extensions. Delivery requirements include F.O.B. destination with freight prepaid using Audubon's FedEx account, ensuring frozen delivery that meets exact size specifications and quality standards. Deliveries will be made to the Audubon Zoo Commissary and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, with weekly orders for the zoo and monthly orders for the aquarium, requiring delivery within three working days of order placement.

The RFB does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Payment terms are net 20 days, with a preference for credit card transactions. The contract includes price adjustment provisions linked to the Producer Price Index for Feeder Animals and potential tariff adjustments exceeding 5% of the contract value. Suppliers must demonstrate compliance with specific requirements, including humane euthanasia according to current AVMA guidelines and providing comprehensive documentation of animal acquisition, maintenance, euthanasia, and preservation processes. While a specific budget range is not provided, the extensive variety and significant quantity of feeder animals suggest a substantial contract value. The procurement covers multiple delivery locations and requires strict adherence to quality and ethical standards, indicating a complex and specialized procurement process. The potential five-year contract period (including extension options) provides an opportunity for a long-term partnership with the selected supplier.