🐒 A Wild Day Out: Newcastle Division Girlguiding at Twycross Zoo

It was a chilly day but we didn't let that stop us!

Last spring, as part of the celebrations for 50 years of Newcastle Division Girlguiding, a group of around 300 members embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire. Known as the "World Primate Centre," Twycross Zoo is home to over 500 animals from nearly 150 species, including all four great apes: gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees, and bonobos .

🚌 Journey to the Zoo

Districts set off early from various locations around the division, filled with excitement and anticipation. The journey was lively, with the girls chatting about the animals they were most eager to see and the activities planned for the day.

🐾 Exploring the Zoo

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the lush surroundings and the sounds of various animals. The girls were thrilled to see the Amur leopards basking in the sun and the playful antics of the chimpanzees. Some of the highlights included:

• Gibbon Forest: The girls were fascinated by the acrobatic gibbons swinging through the trees, showcasing their impressive agility.

• Lorikeet Landing: A walk-through aviary where the girls had the opportunity to feed the vibrant lorikeets, an experience that brought smiles and laughter all around.

• Conservation Way: This area featured critically endangered species like the Amur leopards and Chapman's zebras, providing valuable insights into conservation efforts .

🎓 Educational Workshops

To enhance the learning experience, we were offered workshops led by Twycross Zoo's education team. Due to time constraints, we didn't participate in these during this visit but we are considering returning in the not-to distant future and may consider the workshops next time -these session include:

• Hands-on Activities: The chance to touch real animal artefacts, such as skulls and skins, deepening their understanding of animal adaptations and behaviours.

• Interactive Discussions: Topics covered include endangered species, habitat loss, and the importance of conservation.

📸 Memorable Moments

Throughout the day, we captured countless photos of the girls interacting with the animals, participating in the workshop, and enjoying each other's company. These moments will serve as cherished memories for years to come.

🌟 Reflections

The trip to Twycross Zoo was more than just a fun day out; it was an opportunity for the girls to learn about wildlife conservation, develop a deeper appreciation for animals, and strengthen their bonds as a group. As one of the girls remarked:

"I never knew how important it is to protect animals and their homes. Today was amazing!"

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Twycross Zoo for their engaging sessions and to our volunteers for making this trip possible.