London Zoo is situated in the middle of the city in the Regent’s Park and is one of the oldest and the most famous zoo in the world. Since it opened its doors for the public in 1828, it has been a home to wildlife conservation and education where visitors can have a unique experience with the animals and the environment.
A Historical Perspective
London Zoo, which is under the operation of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), has been in existence for almost two centuries. It was initially a scientific research station and over time it began admitting visitors and has since then become a favorite spot for animal enthusiasts. For many years now, the zoo has been useful in animal breeding, conservation, and education on the endangered species.
Animal Kingdom: It is a world of diversity.
London Zoo has over 20,000 animals of more than 750 species and subspecies. Big cats, primates, reptiles and many other animals are exhibited in the zoo and the visitors get a chance to see animals from different parts of the world.
Land of the Lions: Walk into the Land of the Lions, a magnificent display of the Sasan Gir, a national park in India. See Asiatic lions in action as they move around their natural environment.
Gorilla Kingdom: Go to the African jungle in Gorilla Kingdom where a family of the western lowland gorillas is found. This setting enables people to watch these great apes in a surrounding that is closely resembling their natural ecosystem.
Penguin Beach: Have fun watching the penguins at the Penguin Beach which is the largest penguin pool in England. See them plunge and swim with such grace in their latest hi-tech tank.
Reptile House: Visit the historical Reptile House and explore the world of reptiles and amphibians. Take a closer look at the different kinds of reptiles such as the snakes, lizards, and frogs among others.
Engaging Exhibits and Experiences
Visiting London Zoo is not only an opportunity to watch animals. It offers touch and feel facilities and activities that make the visitors to be more involved in the learning process of wildlife and its preservation.
Animal Talks and Feeding Times: During the feeding time and the animal talks that are conducted by the zoo experts, one can learn about the inhabitants of the zoo. These informative presentations give information about the behavior, feeding habits and the status of conservation of different animals.
Butterfly Paradise: Take a leisurely stroll through a tropical landscape complete with hundreds of loose butterflies in Butterfly Paradise. This exhibit presents the aesthetic and environmental aspects of these insects in a manner that is very captivating.
Rainforest Life: Get an experience of the rainforest by listening to the sounds and seeing the sights of this indoor exhibit. Meet sloths, tamarins and other species of tropical birds while you tour this colourful habitat.
Conservation and Education
London Zoo is very much involved in the preservation of wildlife as well as in the promotion of awareness on the same. The programs of breeding of animals in the zoo have helped in the conservation of several species which were on the verge of extinction. Also, the zoo provides school and public education, focusing on the aspect of species conservation and the need to protect the planet’s fauna.
Plan Your Visit
London Zoo is always open for visitors, and therefore can be visited at any time of the year by families, school going children and animal lovers. The zoo is well connected by bus and other modes of transport and there are restaurants to eat, places to have a picnic and gift shops. To get the best out of your visit, you should purchase tickets in advance and ensure that you go through the day’s events and programs.
Conclusion
London Zoo is not just a place to go for a day out but it is a journey into the fascinating world of animals. Whether you are admiring the strong walk of a lion, the funny swim of a penguin or the languid gait of a sloth, the zoo is a chance to get closer to the nature. Help London Zoo in its endeavours and step into the world of the wild that will capture the imagination and stimulate the minds of all visitors.