Christmas comes early at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
Tuesday 18 December 2012
Festive treats for meerkats, lemurs, otters and sealions
© Brian Aldridge
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s animals woke up to Christmas a week early as keepers gave them a host of festive treats to get them in the holiday spirit.
The ring-tailed lemurs, including twins Billy and Taffy, recieved stockings filled with their favourite snacks and some extra-special presents to unwrap.

Ring-tailed lemurs open their presents
The Zoo’s oriental small-clawed otters and Californian sealions were treated to Christmas dinner with a difference, as they were given some festive frozen treats.

Dom the Californian sealion with his fishy festive treat
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.”

Frozen festive treats for Whipsnade's family of otters
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. Find out more about Christmas at the Zoo.





