Published on : Monday, December 9, 2013
Santa has delivered the perfect festive treat to the colony of penguins that live at West Midland Safari Park. And, judging by the reaction, the gift was
spot on! It’s not always that easy choosing the right kind of present for a little penguin, but thankfully Santa took advice from his trusted elf and it was clear that a parcel filled with sprats was perfect.
Penguin Cove is located in the Park’s Discovery Trail and is home to thirteen Humboldt Penguins. Whilst a visit by Santa bearing a gift of a foodie variety was undoubtedly very much appreciated by these busy little birds, it was also timely.
Amy Sewell, the Park’s Penguin Keeper, said, “It is very important that the penguins are well insulated in the winter, one of the best ways to do this is to ensure the penguins have enough fat on their bones. Fat or blubber helps the penguins to stay warm in extreme conditions. In the winter months the penguins diet is increased, so they definitely enjoyed their present from Santa”.
Whilst many associate penguins with the frozen north, the colony at West Midland Safari Park are actually native to South America, where they nest on islands and rocky coasts. The Cove provides the Penguins with a similar habitat and comes complete with nesting areas, a pool with semi-submerged beach, waterfall, sculptures, Penguin House and excellent public glass fronted viewing areas to watch the Penguins as they swim under water. A series of talks by staff and displays on digital information screens accompany the
exhibit.
Humboldt Penguins are classified as vulnerable in the wild with a declining population due to over fishing, climate change and ocean acidification.
Santa is currently the star of Santa Safari – the month long event that is being held in the Park’s Discovery Trail.
Now in it’s eighth season, Santa Safari is open every day until Christmas Eve and incorporates admission to the animal reserves, Discovery Trail – including Penguin Cove – and the African Village.
Children have their photo taken with Santa to take home along with a gift of their choice. Whilst adults are not forgotten either, as a choice of Mulled Wine or Hot Chocolate and Mince Pie is also included in their ticket price.
Standard Prices for Santa Safari 2013 Adult £15.99; Child (1yr to 15 years) £14.99; Baby (up to 1 year) £7.50 Receive an extra 15% discount per person by booking on any of the following weekday dates: 9th-13th Dec and 16th-20th Dec 2013.
Source:- Visit Worcestershire
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