Michael Brambell: key obituary facts
Is Michael Brambell dead? Yes. Michael Brambell died on October 18, 2026, at age 94.
Cause of death: Michael Brambell's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Michael Brambell known for?
He was a British zoologist.
More about Michael Brambell
Gender: male.
Occupation: zoologist.
Michael Brambell, a British zoologist who directed Chester Zoo, died October 18, 2026, aged 94.
Born Michael Rogers Brambell in London on August 2, 1932, he grew up in Bangor, North Wales. His father, Francis W.
R. Brambell, headed zoology at the University of Bangor from the 1930s through the 1960s; the Brambell Laboratory in Bangor, now Grade II listed, was named for him. Michael attended Hillgrove School in Bangor before pursuing a career in zoology. From 1978 to 1995, he served as director of Chester Zoo. His published works included Horse, Tapir & Rhinoceros (1976) and The Evolution of the Modern Zoo (1993). The earlier book appeared before his appointment at Chester, while the later volume was published during his tenure; the medal he later received came four years after he left the zoo. In 1999, the Zoological Society of London awarded him its Silver Medal. His career included zoo leadership, zoological writing and recognition from the society.