Christmas comes early at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Festive treats for meerkats, lemurs and otters

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s animals will be waking up to Christmas a week early as keepers give them a host of festive treats to get them in the holiday spirit.

Meerkats Paul, George and Ringo will be posting letters to Santa in their very own red post-box, before enjoying home-made Christmas crackers stuffed full of tasty treats. click here to see all the photos http://celebrityphotosuk.photoshelter.com/gallery/ZSL-Whipsnade-Zooa-s-animals-Christmas/G0000OmwnuyB_Fuk/

The ring-tailed lemurs, including twins Billy and Taffy, will receive stockings filled with their favourite snacks and some extra-special presents to unwrap, while the Zoo’s oriental small-clawed otters and sealions are set to be treated to Christmas dinner with a difference, as they are given some festive frozen treats.

Keeper Mark Holden said: “Whipsnade’s animals are really inquisitive by nature and love investigating new things. Not only will our gifts give them the chance to use their natural curiosity, they’ll enjoy them too– they’re the perfect festive enrichment activities.”

Visitors to ZSL Whipsnade Zoo this Christmas can see the Zoo’s herd of reindeers, take part in interactive Elves’ Workshops to prepare gifts for the chimps, and visit Santa in his fairytale grotto. Book tickets now at www.zsl.org