ITV1's 'The Zoo'
Armed poachers, 250lb newborns, battling dragons and gorilla politics – it’s all in a days work for staff at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
And now the Society is the focus of a new three-part documentary for ITV1, after cameras went behind the scenes with staff for the first time in a decade.
Staff at the Society, which runs ZSL London Zoo, Whipsnade Zoo, and undertakes science and conservation work in more than 50 countries, were followed by cameras for a year for the three hour-long episodes.
Episode 1
Gorilla introductions, breeding vultures and a new rainforest
In the opening episode of 'The Zoo' viewers see the story of western lowland gorilla Yeboah and meet the keepers and vets that work with him.
Meanwhile the Zoo's bird team are hand-rearing vulture chicks and the opening of Rainforest Life, the Zoo's new indoor rainforest, is a success thanks to the press team.
Episode 2
Elephant birth, breeding dragons and introducing dogs
In the second part of the series we join ZSL Whipsnade Zoo's elephant team as they prepare for the imminent arrival of a new baby. Back at ZSL London Zoo baby Komodo dragons are being planned, however keepers need to introduce the pair first.
Episode 3
Conservation: rhinos in Nepal, eels in the Thames, saving frogs
In the final episode we follow the vital conservation work that ZSL carries out around the globe.
Whether its reintroducing birds to the UK, preventing rhino poaching in Nepal, monitoring eels in the Thames or breeding endangered gorillas at the Zoo, ZSL staff tirelessly work to help save endangered animals and their habitats.
The work of ZSL
The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is a charity devoted to the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.
ZSL's work spans two world class Zoo, a leading scientific institute and global conservation projects.
ZSL receives no government funding and relies on the generosity of its Zoo visitors and other supporters.
Other ways to support ZSL's work
Come to The Zoo
Meet the real stars of 'The Zoo', the animals. Visitors can get up close to our animals including the gorillas, lions, penguins and even our vultures.
Buying tickets in advance online is the fastest and cheapest way to get into the Zoo.
