About

India's oldest Nature Conservation Foundation, since 1883

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), a pan-India wildlife research organization, aims to spread awareness about nature through science-based research, conservation advocacy, education, scientific publications, nature tours, and other programmes.

Tiger with tropical leaf pattern walking through grass

Our Mission

Conservation of nature, primarily biological diversity through action based on research, education and public awareness

Our Vision

Premier independent scientific organization with a broad based constituency, excelling in the conservation of threatened species and habitats.

7 Lakh+

Birds ringed in India

7 Lakh+

Birds ringed in India

7 Lakh+

Birds ringed in India

7 Lakh+

Birds ringed in India

The Founders

In 1883, eight nature-loving residents of Bombay decided to exchange notes and exhibit interesting specimens of natural history. They came together at Bombay's Victoria and Albert Museum on September 15 and constituted the Bombay Natural History Society. Of them, two were Indians.

  1. 01Dr. Sakharam Arjun
  2. 02Dr. G. A. Maconochie
  3. 03Dr. Atmaram Pandurang
  4. 04Mr. J. Johnston
  5. 05Mr. J. C. Anderson
  6. 06Col. C. Swinhoe
  7. 07Dr. D. MacDonald
  8. 08Mr. E. H. Aitken
Hornbill House
Our office

Hornbill House

Hornbill House at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road, Fort, is the home of the Society. It holds the natural history collections, the BNHS Library and the offices of our research, education and publication teams, and it takes its name from the hornbill of the Society's emblem.

Members and researchers are welcome by prior appointment. Visits to the collections and the library are arranged through the respective departments.

Hornbill House, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road, Opposite Lion Gate, Fort, Mumbai 400 001

Monday to Friday, 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

The Journey

A Legacy of Conservation Through the Decades.

For over a century, BNHS has led India's conservation journey. From pioneering research to major species and habitat initiatives, each milestone reflects our commitment to protecting wildlife and the natural world.

1900s

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Governing Council

Teams

Together, our teams bring knowledge, passion, and purpose to every aspect of conservation – working to understand, protect, and celebrate the natural world.

22

Departments

1200+

Members

80+

Researchers

60+

Field Experts

View All Teams