At ZSL, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of zoological science.
From opening the world’s first scientific zoo in 1828 - transforming how scientists learned about animals - to founding the Institute of Zoology and pioneering global conservation science, our legacy is one of innovation and optimism.
Here we celebrate some of the breakthroughs that have shaped our collective understanding of wildlife and laid the groundwork for future discoveries.
Explore more
- 200 years of penguins in London
Penguins through ZSL's history
When did the first penguin arrive at London Zoo? What different species have called the Zoo home? Learn all about the penguins throughout our history, and how our understanding of animal care has developed over the past 200 years.
- 6 February 2026
What did Charles Darwin do?
Charles Darwin had a really close connection with ZSL, using London Zoo and our experts to advance his evolutionary theories.
- 5 February 2026
Vets and vet care at ZSL
Looking back at two centuries of veterinary innovation and how the foundations laid by ZSL’s early veterinary pioneers continues to shape our work
- 1 February 2026
History of scientific meetings at ZSL
For 200 years ZSL has been bringing people together to share ideas and discoveries, debate theories, and shape the future of zoology
The world’s first scientific zoo
The simple question that launched two centuries of discovery, learning and conservation.
ZSL's described animals
Over two centuries, ZSL has contributed to the formal description, rediscovery, and conservation of hundreds of species
The daily occurrences
For almost 200 years, a log of the daily occurrences at London Zoo have been recorded by our dedicated staff
Hidden voices: the untold stories of ZSL
Learn more stories of animal experts who journeyed across continents to bring the animals in their care to the UK
ZSL and the royal family
Looking back at two centuries of royal connections and how they have helped us work towards our vision of a world where wildlife thrives
