ZSL pays tribute to Lord Snowdon

ZSL (Zoological Society of London) is saddened by the news that Lord Snowdon has died. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. 

Lord Snowdon designed the iconic Snowdon Aviary, one of ZSL London Zoo’s most famous structures which has been a landmark on the London skyline since it was built in 1962. Now a Grade II* listed building, it was the first walk-through aviary in existence - pushing the architectural boundaries of its time. 

The Aviary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2015 and, following funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other donors, is set to be given a bold new makeover by renowned architects Foster + Partners. It will be transformed into a walk-through colobus monkey enclosure, which will give visitors a unique and up close experience of the stunning primates.

Ralph Armond, Director General at ZSL, said: “Lord Snowdon will be sadly missed. He created a truly unique piece of architecture for ZSL London Zoo. He was inspired by the graceful movements of flying birds and conceived a pioneering aviary that looks almost weightless - like a bird. It is an iconic piece of architecture so we are proud to have something very special to remember him by.”