The annual inventory check at ZSL London Zoo is currently in progress, with zookeepers and animals facing the cold weather conditions. As the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) commemorates its 200th year as a charity, zookeepers have prepared their tools to count every mammal, bird, reptile, and invertebrate residing in the zoo. Housing over 8,000 animals, ranging from tiny leafcutter ants to the majestic silverback gorillas, each creature must be included in the tally.
This yearly stocktake is a mandatory procedure that also contributes to global conservation breeding programs. Despite snowfall and temperatures plunging below zero in the capital, staff diligently began the counting process. They were observed meticulously documenting Humboldt penguins, Asiatic lions, corals, Seychelles millipedes, and capybaras on Tuesday.
Dan Simmonds, the zoo’s head keeper, emphasized the significance of this year’s stocktake, coinciding with ZSL’s bicentennial celebration. He highlighted the tradition of animal counting at London Zoo, spanning two centuries, and welcomed visitors to witness the process. With more than 8,000 animals to account for, the task is substantial. Despite the freezing conditions, the capybaras, enjoying their heated shelter, contrasted the keepers’ discomfort in the cold.
The counting commenced early on Tuesday, aiming to complete the task by day’s end. Among the notable counts were 75 Humboldt penguins, including 16 newly hatched chicks, a positive development for the species conservation efforts. Additionally, eight Socorro dove chicks that hatched in 2025 marked progress in saving the species from extinction.
Furthermore, the critically endangered Darwin’s frogs population at London Zoo increased by eight in 2025, representing a significant advancement in the conservation efforts for this EDGE species. The successful breeding of these frogs was applauded by ZSL conservationists leading the global initiative to protect them from the chytrid fungus threat.
The day’s activities were captured in compelling images, showcasing various animals being counted during the annual stocktake at London Zoo. From feeding capybaras to counting lions and penguins, the event captured the dedication of the zoo staff to preserve and protect diverse species.