Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive

Preserving the knowledge, wisdom and stories of zoo and aquarium professionals for future generations.

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Jumbo the Elephant and Handlers

Courtesy of the Zoological Society of London.

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Newest Interviews

In Memoriam

Jan 10, 1942 - Oct 4, 2025

Interview | Director

Gunther Nogge

Dr. Gunther Nogge’s professional experience is unique. While director of the Cologne Zoo, he was a lecturer in zoology at Kabul University and scientific advisor to the Kabul Zoo. At the University of Bonn he lectured in parasitology and entomology. Watch the full Interview

Interview | General Curator

Douglas Richardson

Douglas Richardson has taken his skill set and works as an independent zoological consultant, advising wildlife facilities around the world.Watch the full Interview

Interview | Director

Steve Taylor

With over 40 years of experience in the zoological profession, Steve Taylor was director of the Sacramento Zoo and the Cleveland Zoo. He has visited over 400 institutions, giving him a great resource to draw upon as a leader in the world of animal management. Watch the full Interview

Interview | President

John Chapo

With over 45 years working in the zoological profession, John has done it all - starting with concessions and moving through the ranks of animal keeper, until becoming President of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo. His education included classes in wildlife conservation and captive management programs at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust.Watch the full Interview

Interview | Vice President

Jim Robinett

Jim Robinett served 40 years at the world-famous John G. Shedd Aquarium. He has held every job from that of an Aquarist, Curator of Marine Mammals, Director of Animal Collections and Senior Vice President. Watch the full Interview

Interview | Veterinarian

Tom Meehan, DVM

Dr. Tom Meehan has over 40 years as a veterinarian working with exotic animals. During his professional career he achieved many milestones, such as the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians.Watch the full Interview

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Newest Galleries

In Memoriam

Mar 28, 1905 - Jun 14, 1986

Gallery | Zoo Parade

Episodes of Zoo Parade from 1950

Archival episodes of Zoo Parade from 1952. The series, which starred Lincoln Park Zoo’s director Marlin Perkins, was the first animal program in the history of television.

In Memoriam

Oct 6, 1934 - May 5, 2024

Gallery | Audio Recordings

John Peter Roth

5th Switzerland podcast interview of John Peter Roth, conducted by Valerie Lucchesi on January 13, 2022

Gallery | Radio Broadcast

Steve Dale & Mark Rosenthal 2022

Steve Dale and Mark Rosenthal, Curator Emeritus at Lincoln Park Zoo and author of The Ark in Park, talk about animals, videos, and the Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive.

In Memoriam

Jan 1, 1930 - Mar 19, 2003

Gallery | Historical Photos

Ulysses S. Seal III Photos

Photos of Dr. Ulysses S. Seal III during his career and long time involvement with the Conservation Planning Specialist Group and working with zoos around the world for conservation of threatened species.

Gallery | Historical Photos

Lincoln Park Zoo

Historical photos of the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Gallery | Historical Photos

Honolulu Zoo

Historical Images from the Honolulu Zoo.

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Latest News & Press

News

AZADV Symbiosis 2024 Issue-4

Press

Interview with Steve Dale on WGN Radio

Steve Dale and Mark Rosenthal, Curator Emeritus at Lincoln Park Zoo and author of The Ark in Park, talk about animals, videos. Which leads us to the launch of the Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive and the efforts and purpose

News

A peek behind the scenes

Want a glimpse into the people behind the Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive? Probably not, but here it is anyway.

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What is the Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive?

Conducting, recording, and archiving video interviews with the pioneers of the zoo and aquarium industry to preserve their wisdom for years to come.

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Alfred Parker & Deed-A-Day

Credit: Chicago Public Library, Chicago Park District Archive.

Sponsors

The Zoo & Aquarium Video Archive is grateful for the funding or in-kind support given by the following organizations and individuals.

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Endorsements

These organizations and individuals have endorsed the work of the Zoo & Aquarium video Archive. We appreciate their support.

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