Prof. Zdeněk Veselovský (August 26, 1928 – November 24, 2006) was one of the most important Czech

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Poland to the northeast, Slovakia to the east, Austria to the south, and Germany to the west and northwest....

 zoologists of the 20th century, founder of Czech ethology

Ethology

Ethology is the scientific study of animal behavior, and a sub-topic of zoology....

, very successful director of the Prague Zoo

Prague Zoo

Prague Zoo is a zoo in Prague, Czech Republic. It was opened in 1931 with the goal to "advance the study of zoology, protect wildlife, and educate the public" in the district of Troja in the north of Prague. The zoo occupies 45 hectares and houses about 4,400 animals that represent 670 species...

 (1959-1988) and the president of the International Union of Directors of Zoological Gardens (1971-1975) (renamed in 2000 to World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums is the "umbrella" organisation for the world zoo and aquarium community. Its mission is to provide leadership and support for zoos, aquariums, and partner organizations of the world in animal care and welfare, conservation of biodiversity, environmental...

). Under his leadership, the Prague zoo reached some successes in the area of breeding and scientific research.