London Zoo, located in Regent’s Park, London, is home to over 19,000 animals representing 673 species. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the various animal species found in London Zoo, focusing on their unique characteristics, habitats, and conservation efforts.

Mammals at London Zoo

Gorillas

London Zoo’s Gorilla Kingdom houses a 193kg western lowland gorilla silverback named Kiburi and his troop. Visitors can observe these majestic primates in their naturalistic habitat.

Hippos

Obaysch, the first hippopotamus to be seen in Europe since Roman times, attracted thousands of visitors when he arrived in 1850. Today, London Zoo continues to showcase these semi-aquatic mammals.

Elephants

Jumbo, the famous African elephant, helped make the word ‘Jumbo’ a synonym for big. London Zoo’s elephant exhibit allows visitors to learn about these gentle giants.

Spiders

Belinda, the Mexican red-kneed bird-eating spider, was a popular attraction and helped people overcome their fear of spiders. The Zoo’s Invertebrate House showcases a variety of fascinating arachnids.

Hornbills

Josephine, a great Indian hornbill, was the oldest animal in the Zoo for many years. These unique birds with their distinctive beaks can be seen in the Zoo’s Blackburn Pavilion.

Lemurs

The anam leaf turtle is one of the most endangered reptiles on earth, with only around 50 remaining individuals in the wild. London Zoo’s Lemur Walk allows visitors to observe these playful primates up close.

Alpacas

Alpacas are a domestic animal breed from the vicuña, native to the Andes. Visitors can encounter these fluffy camelids in the Zoo’s Into Africa area.

African Wild Dogs

London Zoo’s Into Africa area is home to African species such as giraffes, zebras, African wild dogs, and pygmy hippos. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the African savanna.

Birds at London Zoo

Toucans

The Blackburn Pavilion houses exotic toucans, along with other tropical birds. Visitors can admire the vibrant colors and unique beaks of these fascinating creatures.

Butterflies

Butterfly Paradise is a tropical garden where butterflies from across the globe flutter above visitors. This immersive experience allows guests to witness the beauty and diversity of these delicate insects.

Eagles

Goldie the golden eagle escaped in 1965, causing a nationwide obsession and appearing on television and in the press for almost two weeks. London Zoo continues to showcase these majestic birds of prey.

Reptiles and Amphibians at London Zoo

Quagga

The only quagga to have ever been photographed alive was at London Zoo, providing the only insight into what a living quagga looked like after the species became extinct in 1883.

Komodo Dragon

The Komodo dragon house is home to the largest reptile in the world. Visitors can observe these impressive and ancient creatures up close.

Crocodiles

The Zoo houses Philippine crocodiles, one of the most endangered crocodile species in the world. Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation efforts for these apex predators.

Conservation Efforts at London Zoo

London Zoo is committed to conservation efforts, with a focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats. The Zoo’s global wildlife conservation work includes tackling threats to wildlife and working to better understand and protect species such as the anam leaf turtle.

Zoo Information

• Location: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY, England.
• Telephone: 0844 225 1826.
• Hours: Open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Last admission is one hour before advertised closing time.
• Admission: For full entry prices, call 0844 225 1826.

References
– https://www.londonzoo.org/whats-here/animals
– https://membership.zsl.org/sites/default/files/media/2022-02/ZSL%20London%20Zoo%20-%20Stocklist%202022.pdf
– https://www.londonzoo.org/zoo-stories/history-of-london-zoo/famous-animals
– https://www.londonzoo.org/whats-here/habitats
– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Zoo