Can you believe the Edinburgh Zoo was officially opened 119 years ago today?
With pandas, giraffes and the famous penguin parade, Edinburgh Zoo has long been one of Edinburgh most famous attractions, with locals and tourists from all over the world flocking to see the world famous zoo.
Modelled on Hamburg’s Tierpark Hagenbeck Zoo in Germany, it has housed some of the world’s most loved animals over its history, with three king penguins arriving in 1914, supplied by the Christian Salvesen whaling expedition which docked in Leith.
In more recent times, it has grown to a family of sloths, five male Baringo giraffes, a baby red panda and three endangered Przewalski's horses – all of which have proven huge pulls to visitors.
And on today, its 119 year anniversary, there’s no better way to look over the history of the Edinburgh Zoo than the following 12 photos of it throughout its history.
9. Feeding time
A wildcat kitten is handfed by Mr Fisher, Director of Edinburgh Zoo, in July 1963. Photo: TSPL
10. Sundra the elephant
Sundra the elephant has her skin greased by a keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, to prevent it from becoming dry and cracked during the winter in October 1936. Photo: Martin
11. Zebra crossing...literally
Edinburgh zoo keeper Grace Forrest walks Tot the zebra on Corstorphine Road in November 1964. Photo: Unknown
12. The Penguin Parades his award
Nils Olav parades his badge of office of Honoray Regimental Sergeant Major in front of The Royal Norwegian Guard. Photo: DONOVAN ROGER DONOVAN