London Zoo Conducts Annual Census To Manage Endangered Species

Gorillas pick up food during the annual stocktake at London Zoo in London, Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

London Zoo is currently conducting its annual census to account for its 10,000-plus animal residents, ranging from alpacas to zebras, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates. This census is a mandatory requirement for the zoo's license and serves a crucial purpose in managing breeding programs for endangered species worldwide.

The zoo's lead primate keeper highlighted the importance of sharing information among zoos, stating that they can track the genetic lineage of each individual animal. This data allows them to make informed decisions about responsible breeding practices, ensuring that populations are not overrepresented or underrepresented.

Crucial for managing breeding programs of endangered species

Annual census for 10,000+ animals at London Zoo

Genetic lineage tracking for responsible breeding practices

Significant births in 2024: gorillas, lions, penguins, and frogs

Challenges in counting diverse invertebrates

Honeybees counted as a single entity

Importance of sharing information among zoos

New frog residents named after Charles Darwin

11 penguin chicks and 53 new frogs introduced

Data aids in conservation efforts

2024 has been a significant year for the zoo, with the birth of two baby gorillas, Juno and Venus, as well as three Asiatic lion cubs named Mali, Syanii, and Shanti. Additionally, 11 penguin chicks have delighted visitors, while 53 new frogs, named after Charles Darwin, have been introduced to the zoo to aid in conservation efforts.

While counting large mammals is straightforward, identifying the diverse array of invertebrates poses a challenge. Among the new invertebrate residents are a thriving hive of honeybees, which will be counted as a single entity for census purposes.