Desmond Morris died aged 98 on April 19, 2026.
He was a renowned zoologist, writer, and broadcaster.
Morris authored more than 50 books throughout his career spanning over six decades.
His most famous work, The Naked Ape, sold an estimated 18 million copies.
Born on January 24, 1928, in Purton, Wiltshire, he completed his doctorate in animal behaviour at Oxford University.
From 1959 to 1967, he served as the curator of mammals at London Zoo.
Morris was also known for his television program Zoo Time, which aired for 11 years starting in 1956.
In addition to his writing and broadcasting, he had a solo exhibition at Farleys House & Gallery in 2019.
He made numerous contributions to the field of zoology—identifying over 4,200 species of warm-blooded mammals by 1965.
His lifelong friendship with David Attenborough showcased his profound impact on wildlife documentation.
As of now, details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unconfirmed.
Jason Morris remarked, “His was a lifetime of exploration, curiosity and creativity.”