As the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) marks its monumental 200th anniversary, a captivating glimpse into the life of its dedicated veterinary team reveals the complexities of animal care amid the challenges faced by endangered species. From the meticulous treatment of a sedated lion to the intricate procedures involving critically endangered frogs, photographer David Levene documents a year filled with both peril and compassion, showcasing the extraordinary efforts of those who ensure the health and well-being of the zoo’s inhabitants.
A Year of Unprecedented Access
Levene, who gained unique insight into the operations of ZSL, embarked on this journey motivated by his childhood dreams of becoming a veterinarian. His photographic project began serendipitously while visiting an art exhibition focused on animal waste, which led him to the veterinary hospital at London Zoo. After months of negotiations, he received special permission to observe the intimate and often intense world of animal care throughout 2025.
His experience proved to be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “On the second day of the project, I found myself face-to-face with a lion – it was definitely a baptism of fire,” Levene recalled, referring to Bhanu, an Asiatic lion with a chronic ear condition requiring general anaesthesia for a thorough examination. Such procedures, while necessary, are not taken lightly; anaesthesia is always a last resort, reflecting the importance of balancing animal welfare with the need for surgical intervention.
The Complexity of Care
The array of species at ZSL presents a formidable challenge for its veterinary team, which consists of only a handful of in-house professionals. The team, led by head vet Amanda Guthrie, includes five veterinarians, six nurses, and specialists in pathology and molecular diagnostics. Together, they tackle the diverse needs of both exotic and native animals, a task that requires not only medical expertise but also a deep understanding of each species’ unique physiology.
During his year-long project, Levene witnessed the delicate processes involved in treating animals, both large and small. The sheer weight of a 177kg gorilla named Kiburi being transported for a CT scan exemplifies the logistical hurdles the team must navigate. “It takes more than a dozen vets, nurses and keepers to haul a sedated rhino into place for an operation,” Levene noted, highlighting the collaborative effort required to ensure that each animal receives the best possible care.
Pioneering Veterinary Practices
ZSL’s veterinary history is rich and pioneering, tracing back to its first medical attendant, Charles Spooner, who treated ailments ranging from mange in lion cubs to dental issues in adult big cats. Innovations in veterinary practices have emerged over the years, including the invention of the handheld dart gun by Oliver Graham-Jones, the first dedicated zoo vet in Britain, allowing for safe and effective anaesthesia from a distance.
Today, ZSL continues to lead the way in animal health and welfare, with its veterinary team conducting countless procedures to monitor and enhance the lives of its residents. From performing cataract surgery on a rhino to anaesthetising a mountain chicken frog for gallbladder surgery, the range of procedures is as varied as the animals themselves. The commitment to conservation is evident, as many of these efforts contribute to breeding programmes aimed at increasing populations of endangered species.
The Emotional Bond Between Keepers and Animals
One of the most poignant aspects of Levene’s experience was observing the profound connection between zookeepers and the animals they care for daily. While the veterinary team approaches their work with a necessary level of detachment, keepers develop intimate relationships with the creatures, often sharing moments of affection and understanding. Levene captured these moments, where the line between professionalism and emotional investment is beautifully blurred.
“The keepers are living with the animals every day and get to know them really well,” he explained. “When a dangerous animal is under anaesthetic, they take the opportunity to cuddle these animals, smell them.” It is this emotional connection that underscores the importance of their roles—not merely as caregivers, but as advocates for the animals they love.
Why it Matters
The work undertaken at London Zoo is not merely a function of entertainment; it serves as a vital cog in the machinery of global conservation efforts. By understanding the health and biology of endangered species, ZSL plays an integral role in preserving biodiversity for future generations. Levene’s project illuminates the dedication and resilience of those on the front lines of animal care, highlighting that behind the scenes, every check-up, every procedure, and every act of compassion is a step toward safeguarding our planet’s invaluable wildlife.
