№ 1986. The 150th Anniversary of the Leningrad Zoo

 

The Leningrad Zoo is one of the oldest Russian zoos. Preserving the architectural planning of the 19th century, the zoo is a part of the city's architectural ensemble, as well as a keeper of its historical legacy.

It was founded August 14, 1865. Initially it was a private menagerie. It was opened and contained at private expense of Dutch Prussian citizenship Gebgardt Julius and his wife Sophia. Later, the zoo was changed a lot of owners, while being a private institution more than 50 years.

The zoo became the own of a state in 1917, due to the issued Decree "On the nationalization of private entertainment business". The zoo as well as a Leningrad city both survived the Great Patriotic War and the blockade.

Leningrad Zoo is considered to be the unique museum of wildlife, nature protection and educational institution; more than 600 kinds of mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates from different corners of the Earth are kept there.

The postage stamp depicts a pelican against the background of an aviary.