Our two conservation Zoos have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Our animals, architecture and landscapes have featured in iconic films, books, and television programmes, introducing generations to the wonder of wildlife.
From Dracula to Winnie-the-Pooh, our influence has helped shape the public’s imagination through the natural world. Explore how we’ve been at the heart of popular culture throughout our history.
- 5 December 2025
ZSL research features in TIME's Top 100 Photographs of 2025
A rather unusual cover star had graced the covers of TIME Magazine - shining a spotlight on our work tackling the illegal wildlife trade
- 20 April 2026
Poet Laureate marks ZSL’s 200th anniversary with new nature poem
Simon Armitage’s ‘The Moon and the Zoo’ explores the enduring connection between wildlife and people in honour of ZSL's anniversary.
- Winnie was one of London Zoo's most famous residents
The real story behind Winnie the Pooh
A black bear taken in when her mother was killed by a hunter and she has an enduring influence on pop culture today.
- 1 October 2010
Edward Lear's Parrots
As well as being a renowned writer and poet, Edward Lear began his career illustrating the parrots in the Parrot House at London Zoo.
- 18 January 2024
How ZSL entered the age of competitive broadcasting - part 1
A guest blog written by Miles Kempton, Visiting Scholar in ZSL’s Library and Archives.
- 10 September 2024
How ZSL entered the age of competitive broadcasting - part 2
A guest blog written by Miles Kempton, Visiting Scholar in ZSL’s Library and Archives.
