This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
The January 7th, 1911 issue featured a spread about the New York Zoological Society, better known now as The Bronx Zoo. At that time, this zoo was the largest and "most impressive" of its kind in the world, boasting approximately 5,539 species.
Ivan the Bearable & some of his pals:
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
Unfortunately, the images were in black and white so I can't actually tell what shade of rouge the red river hog is wearing on her lips and cheekbones.
Hope this creature feature helps you kick off your weekend right. And a special thanks to R.R. for the makeover.
About the Author: Mary Karmelek is a production assistant for Nature Publishing Group and is currently working on Scientific American's Digital Archive Project, where she spends countless hours scouring articles and ads of decades long ago. She graduated with her MA in English from Fordham University in 2010 and currently resides in New York City. While her educational background is in gender and war trauma in modernist literature, Mary also has a keen interest in the historical and visual documentation of science, nature and medicine.