Help us identify old film reels, London Zoo urges

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is recruiting volunteers to help identify content from hundreds of film reels recently discovered in its archive. Of the 200 reels, only a portion are labeled, while 20 remain completely unmarked, creating a mystery for film enthusiasts. Tina Campanella, ZSL's bicentenary project manager, highlighted the importance of this task as they prepare for the zoo's 200th anniversary next year. Some labeled reels hint at footage of Chi-Chi the panda and behavioral research involving other animals, indicating the historical significance of the material. ZSL has noted that some films exhibit vinegar syndrome, which threatens their preservation, prompting the need for immediate action.

The organization hopes to uncover valuable historical footage before it deteriorates further. Volunteers who are passionate about film history are encouraged to contact ZSL to assist in this endeavor. This initiative not only aims to preserve the zoo's rich history but also engages the community in a unique and meaningful way.