As many people across the country were busy putting up their Christmas decorations this weekend, the same was happening at West Midland Safari Park, but for the enjoyment of the animals, rather than the guests!

The Park is currently hosting its annual Santa Safari event and animal keepers have been thinking of some inventive, festive ways to get the animals in their care involved in the Christmas spirit too.

Firstly, the ‘waddle’ of 19 Humboldt penguins were introduced to a large, shiny gold bauble, which the keepers have been using like a target stick – every time the penguins tap the bauble with their beak, they get a fishy treat. Although some of the penguins seem to enjoy just chasing the rays of light that reflect off the shiny surface, whilst others simply like musing at their distorted reflections!

Meanwhile, the rainbow lorikeets, have been treated to a Christmas tree made by their keeper, Laura Hodgkins. She explained:

“During the weeks before Santa Safari, we’re closed to the public, which is the perfect time for us to come up with enrichment ideas. Usually the guests can feed our lorikeets with a pot of nectar, but with the absence of this, the birds have a lot of time to do their own thing.

“It can be a very busy time of year for the birds, however they all seem to find the time to enjoy a bit of themed enrichment, especially the youngsters, who don't yet have to worry about pressures of courtship and breeding.

“One of the birds’ favourite things is bamboo; they take pride in destroying it as much as they can, so what better way to get them into the festive spirit than a Christmas tree made entirely of bamboo. However, unlike the average Christmas tree this one will only last a week or two, so I’ll soon be making another one to see them through to the New Year!”

Creating enrichment is an important part of a keeper’s job, as it promotes natural behaviours that animals exhibit in the wild. Most of the animals at the attraction enjoy daily enrichment, which guests may be able to spot as they drive around the safari or walk through the exhibits.

Both the lorikeets and penguins can be found in the Park’s walk-through Discovery Trail, which is currently transformed into a winter wonderland, with Christmas trees, snow, lights and festive decorations. It’s also where guests can find Santa and his elves in the magical grotto.

Santa Safari is running daily until Christmas Eve and also on 29th and 30th December. Some days, including Christmas Eve are already sold out, so booking in advance in advised. Admission is £24.00 for adults, £20.00 for children aged 3-15 years, £8.00 for children under the age of three and £21.00 for concessions. Admission includes a free return ticket.

Group and school discounts are also available and annual pass holders or visitors using their return voucher can upgrade to Santa Safari by booking ahead. 

Further information and tickets are available from the Santa Safari website or by phoning 01299 402114. You can find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page.