The London Zoo, a renowned institution in the heart of England, is home to a captivating collection of hummingbirds, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the extraordinary beauty and agility of these tiny avian wonders. As part of a breeding initiative, the zoo’s Blackburn Pavilion serves as a tropical haven for over 50 different bird species, including the mesmerizing Amazilia hummingbirds.
The Blackburn Pavilion: A Tropical Haven for Hummingbirds
The Blackburn Pavilion, a historic Victorian building originally constructed in 1883 as a Reptile House, has been transformed into a lush, tropical environment that provides a home for a diverse array of bird species, including the captivating hummingbirds. The pavilion’s restoration, funded by the Blackburn family, has created a large walk-through area for 200 birds and a smaller “cloud forest” zone that showcases the hummingbirds and other awe-inspiring species.
Amazilia Hummingbirds: The First in British Zoos Since the 1970s
The London Zoo’s hummingbird collection features the Amazilia hummingbird, which are the first to be housed in any British zoo since the late 1970s. These tiny birds, weighing only three to six grams and capable of flapping their wings up to 60 times per second, are not currently endangered but serve as a model for breeding other rare hummingbird species.
Hummingbirds in the London Zoo: A Rich History
The London Zoo has a long and fascinating history with hummingbirds. In 1851, the Gardens of the Zoological Society of London hosted a remarkable exhibition of hummingbirds, showcasing an impressive 1,500 stuffed specimens arranged to showcase the iridescent colors of the male birds. This historic event highlights the zoo’s enduring fascination with these remarkable creatures.
Breeding Initiatives and Conservation Efforts
Today, the London Zoo is part of a European-wide program aimed at reintroducing the Socorro dove to its native habitat. The Amazilia hummingbirds housed in the Blackburn Pavilion may serve as a model for breeding other rare hummingbird species, contributing to conservation efforts and the preservation of these unique avian wonders.
Visitor Experience: Immersing in the Wonders of Hummingbirds
The Blackburn Pavilion’s restoration aims to provide visitors with an immensely powerful experience, allowing them to appreciate the extraordinary nature of birds, including the captivating hummingbirds. The walk-through area and the “cloud forest” zone offer visitors a chance to witness the hummingbirds up close, marveling at their incredible agility and vibrant colors.
Unique Specifications of London Zoo Hummingbirds
- The London Zoo is home to over 50 different bird species, including hummingbirds, in the Blackburn Pavilion.
- The Amazilia hummingbirds housed in the zoo are the first to be seen in any British zoo since the late 1970s.
- Hummingbirds at the London Zoo weigh only 3-6 grams and can flap their wings up to 60 times per second.
- The zoo’s hummingbird collection is part of a breeding initiative and may serve as a model for breeding other rare hummingbird species.
- The Blackburn Pavilion’s restoration, funded by the Blackburn family, provides visitors with an immersive experience to appreciate the extraordinary nature of birds.
Conclusion
The London Zoo’s hummingbird collection is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to conservation and the appreciation of nature’s wonders. The Blackburn Pavilion’s transformation into a tropical haven for these tiny avian marvels offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the captivating beauty and remarkable abilities of hummingbirds. As the zoo continues its breeding initiatives and conservation efforts, the London Zoo hummingbirds will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world.