From sleeping lions to spitting snakes: a year in the life of London zoo vets

Over the course of a year, photographer David Levene documented the demanding and intricate work of veterinarians at London Zoo as it marked its 200th anniversary. The team cares for a wide range of animals, from large and dangerous species like Asiatic lions and king cobras to small and rare creatures such as dormice. Their work involves complex procedures, including administering general anaesthesia to animals like Bhanu, an Asiatic lion with chronic ear infections, and managing the challenges posed by venomous snakes like King Arthur, a young king cobra known for its aggressive response to treatment. The veterinary team at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), which operates both London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, is notably comprehensive, comprising five vets, six nurses, a pathologist, a pathology technician, a molecular diagnostician, and a microbiologist. This in-house expertise is rare among British zoos and allows for advanced, hands-on care tailored to the unique needs of each animal. The vets’ work includes routine health checks, emergency interventions, and ongoing monitoring to ensure the well-being of some of the world’s most endangered species. ZSL’s veterinary history is distinguished by pioneering contributions to animal health and welfare. The zoo’s first medical attendant, Charles Spooner, documented early veterinary treatments in the 19th century, including saving a lion cub named Nelson from a potentially fatal jaw ulcer. This legacy of innovation continues today as the team balances the challenges of treating both exotic and native species, often requiring specialized knowledge and techniques to manage the diverse health issues presented by their patients. The photo series and accompanying stories highlight not only the technical skill and dedication of the veterinary staff but also the emotional bonds formed between keepers and animals. These relationships are crucial in facilitating care and ensuring the animals’ comfort during sometimes stressful procedures. As London Zoo celebrates two centuries, the work of its veterinary team underscores the ongoing commitment to conservation, animal welfare, and scientific advancement.