Help us share the story of our history, by sharing how we’ve been part of yours
Marking the two-year countdown to our bicentenary in 2026, we're asking people to share memories, photographs, footage and historic objects connected to ZSL to help bring our history to life.
We’ve spent almost two centuries bringing people and wildlife closer together. In 2026 we’ll celebrate our greatest achievement – our connection with you, which has allowed us to make such a difference to wildlife conservation.
How will we use your memories and artefacts?
In 2026 we will invite the public to share in our bicentenary celebrations through exciting exhibitions, talks, trails and other activities - at our two conservation zoos, at ZSL’s HQ in Regents Park and beyond.
History Hive submissions will help us bring our 200year history to life and put you - the people who helped make it happen - front and centre in our celebrations.
Oral History Archive
We’re also inviting people to register interest in contributing to a new Oral History Archive as part of the ZSL History Hive project. The aim of the archive is to gather personal experiences to bridge knowledge gaps in our history.
Oral archive interviews will take place over the next two years and will become publicly accessible in 2026. We welcome all experiences of ZSL
Who can contribute to ZSL’s History Hive?
- Have you visited one of our two conservation zoos, and been inspired to work in conservation, or protect nature?
- Has a visit to one of our conservation zoos marked an important moment or occasion in your life?
- Have you or your relatives ever worked at ZSL, including at the Institute of Zoology, overseas or at its two conservation zoos?
- Do you have historic tickets, maps, uniforms, toys, or any other physical memorabilia connected to ZSL?
- Have you got images or footage connected to ZSL or its two conservation zoos?
- Have you a memory or experience of ZSL you’d like to share as part of our Oral History Archive?
If you can answer yes to any of these questions, then you’re already part of our history. Help us celebrate this shared history by contributing to ZSL’s History Hive.
How can I contribute to ZSL’s History Hive?
You can make a submission to the ZSL History Hive using the form below. If you need support submitting to the History Hive, email HistoryHive@ZSL.org