by Zoologist Perfumes
Dodo Zoologist is a bold, olfactory narrative that captures the imagined scent of the extinct dodo bird within a lush, primordial forest. It opens with a vibrant, juicy burst of lychee and lime, evoking fresh tropical fruit and a slightly tart, citrusy green accord. This immediate sweetness is quickly grounded by a cool, aromatic-green heart featuring fern, moss, and salty animalic musk—reminiscent of damp forest floor, feathers, and a faintly ammoniacal ambergris. The scent evolves into a complex, layered dry-down dominated by sea-kissed sandalwood, patchouli, and oakmoss, where a preservationist crudeness lingers, imbuing the fragrance with a musky, earthy authenticity. While some find the opening notes enchanting—comparable to tropical fruit and clean laundry—others perceive it as intensely animalic, with pronounced urinous or fecal-like notes that trigger strong rejection. The scent is often described as "dirty" or "unsanitary," particularly on sensitive skin, and several users report frustration or physical discomfort, including nausea, when wearing it. Despite these challenges, many appreciate its artistic ambition, longevity, and surreal atmosphere. Some envision it as a fantasy-like journey, a centerpiece of a lush jungle or a contemplative reflection on extinction. It’s wearable only for those comfortable with high-contrast, non-conventional fragrances and willing to accept a risk of olfactory discomfort.