Volunteering
Please note specific recruitment dates for each volunteer opportunity.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with ZSL.
The Zoological Society of London is an international charity dedicated to the preservation of animals and their habitats by carrying out scientific, conservation and education work worldwide.
Our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo at Regents Park and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo near Dunstable, provide the main source of funding for our work and are the site of many of our captive breeding projects for endangered species. Over 1.5 million people visit the zoos each year and we aim to give them a unique and memorable experience. The Society employs over 70 conservation scientists to carry out research and manage conservation programmes in 80 countries world-wide, including Britain.
The role of volunteers
Volunteers play a very important role in the life of the ZSL. They do not take the place of paid staff, but they contribute to the success of ZSL by assisting staff, helping the visitors enjoy their day and providing excellent customer service.
Please note:
- There is no direct contact with animals, unless stated, but they are all around you!
- All volunteers will be based at either ZSL London or Whipsnade Zoo in England; please apply only if you live within easy travelling distance of these sites.
Learning Volunteers - (Not recruiting at present)This is a well-established programme at both ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos with over 350 volunteers. Learning Volunteers interact with visitors to awaken or deepen an interest in animals and conservation, and help them have an enjoyable and interesting day at the Zoo. | ||
Membership Volunteers - Now recruitingFor those who wish to generate funds for wildlife and conservation at either ZSL London Zoo or ZSL Whipsnade Zoo by helping ZSL recruit new members for the ZSL Friends scheme. | ||
Library Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)ZSL owns the world’s finest and most extensive zoological library which has been operating since the 1820s. Volunteers assist the librarians in a variety of activities and also answer enquiries from the public. | ||
Administration Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)For those who prefer an indoor and office-based role, these are opportunities to give a hand with various administrative tasks at both ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos. |
Important. We regret we cannot take applications for volunteer placements if you do not live in the UK.
