21 December 2021

We’ve noticed our London Zoo residents behave a lot like Londoners too.

As a bunch of Londoners ourselves we know our city is full of weird and wonderful people - from coffee loving hipsters, to art-obsessed culture vultures, to socialite Instagrammers. Here at London Zoo we’ve noticed our residents behave a lot like Londoners too (well they do have an NW1 postcode after all). And even in the winter, they like to venture outdoors to show off, play, exercise or simply laze around on their very own heated seats!

Two giraffes outside on a bright day

Giraffes

These Londoners are always on the lookout for the next big thing, scanning the horizon for the latest brands, hottest trends (animal print, obvs) and best hangouts. It's hard not to gravitate towards them, and they tend to draw a crowd. They manage to get into every pic, selfie or otherwise, and constantly appear on social media. #metime

Two otters at London Zoo

Otters

Just like otter parents, Pip and Tilly, this typical young family of Londoners is getting used to life with little ones. Having moved from their two-person den in Shoreditch to a larger family home outside the M25 they still gravitate back to the capital for fun family frolics. Doting on their two little ones they love to find fun activities for the whole family, from teaching their youngsters to swim, to playtime with pebbles and exploring nature. 

Group of Humboldt penguins at London Zoo

Penguins

Always dressed to impress, these Londoners only wear tuxedos (or other designer gear). Found frequenting the fanciest, poshest fish and seafood restaurants they love the finer things in life. They even have their own personal, private beach and swimming pool. And they love to get all the attention! 

Meerkat keeping watch

Meerkats

These Londoners live in a massive house share with lots of roommates. As a bunch of workaholics they all find it difficult to switch off and relax after a shift. Luckily they all watch out for each other and help each other take breaks. They enjoy moaning about how much they hate London even though they never, really, want to leave. 

Northern white-cheeked gibbon at London Zoo

Gibbons

These Londoners have perfected their commute, always knowing the quickest routes to get where they need to go and dodging anything in their path (people or tree branches). As exercise fanatics they’re nearly always found at the gym and whether it’s climbing, running or acrobatic gymnastics, they’re always on the move. They have so many hobbies it’s hard to keep track, they’ve even joined a choir and enjoy singing in the mornings! 

Asim the tiger at London Zoo

Tigers

Refined, intellectuals these Londoners take pride in their cultural pursuits. Often seen strutting around museums and galleries, they love to pay attention to everything going on around them. They are totally obsessed with cuisine, especially meat, and are real foodies. They like to hunt and prepare food themselves, before taking pics for Instagram and their food blog. 

Lion in autumn leaves at London Zoo

Lions

These Londoners love to snooze and spend most of their day asleep - cosying up on their heated rocks. When they are awake the male often relies on the female lion in their lives to do all the hunting for them. They spend a good proportion of their time awake roaring loudly to get attention. It’s generally a good idea not to get too close to these Londoners, and never wake one up mid nap, even if they’ve fallen asleep on the tube. 

Gorilla holding a leaf

Gorillas

As real nature-lovers these Londoners are often found outdoors on long rambles or exploring their local parks and woods. Recently they’ve taken up gardening and have been growing their own veg in an allotment. They make sure to share all the extra produce with their neighbours by throwing it at them.

Maybe it's because you're a Londoner, or maybe it's because you identify with one of our furry or not-so-furry-friends?

Either way, get up close and personal with each and every one of them with an unmissable post-lockdown treat - a visit to London Zoo! Pre-book your ticket now:

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    Giraffa camelopardalis

    Giraffe

    Giraffes have the same number of neck bones as humans – although theirs are linked by ball and socket joints enabling them far greater flexibility. 

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    Aonyx cinereus

    Asian short-clawed otter

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    Spheniscus humboldti

    Humboldt penguin

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    Panthera tigris sondaica

    Sumatran tiger

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  • Asiatic lion Bhanu poses surrounded by autumn leaves
    Panthera leo persica

    Asiatic lion

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