In 1939, as World War II loomed, London Zoo faced an unusual dilemma: what to do with its venomous animals if German bombs hit the city. Fearing that escaped snakes, spiders, and scorpions could wreak havoc, zookeepers made a grim decision. They euthanized the entire collection of venomous creatures, including black mambas, cobras, and tarantulas. It was a drastic measure born of wartime panic, but one that left a lasting mark on the zoo’s history.
The decision wasn’t made lightly. With London bracing for air raids, the zoo’s staff worried that shattered enclosures could release deadly animals into the streets. Poisonous snakes, in particular, were seen as a public health risk. The zoo’s director, Julian Huxley, later described the move as a “painful necessity,” though some staff reportedly wept as they carried out the task.
The cull wasn’t limited to venomous species. Other dangerous animals, like lions and tigers, were considered too risky to keep and were also euthanized. The zoo’s remaining animals were relocated to safer areas, and some were even sent to private estates in the countryside.
The decision sparked controversy, both at the time and in hindsight. Critics argued that the animals could have been relocated or secured rather than killed. Others pointed out that the risk of venomous animals escaping during a bombing was minimal compared to the chaos of war.
The incident highlights the difficult choices faced by institutions during wartime. London Zoo, like much of the city, was caught between protecting its inhabitants and preparing for the worst. The loss of its venomous collection was a tragic reminder of the collateral damage of war—even for creatures far removed from the battlefield.
Today, London Zoo has rebuilt its collection of venomous animals, but the 1939 cull remains a somber chapter in its history. It’s a reminder that fear, even in the face of unimaginable threats, can lead to decisions that haunt us long after the danger has passed.
So, next time you visit a zoo, spare a thought for the animals lost during wartime. Their stories are a testament to the resilience of both humans and wildlife—and a cautionary tale about the cost of fear. And if you ever feel overwhelmed by tough decisions, remember: sometimes, the hardest choices are the ones we regret the most.
