There have been some spooky goings on in Bear Wood at Bristol Zoo Project, ahead of Halloween later this month.
The attraction’s European brown bears and wolverines have been enjoying some tasty pumpkins as part of the zoo’s enrichment programme.
The brightly coloured, carved seasonal treats soon captured the attention of the animals, who were keen to investigate.
It’s all part of Bristol Zoo Project’s upcoming ‘Howl-oween’ celebrations which take place from Saturday 21 October until Sunday 5 November.
They will include a ‘witch’s camp’ where costumed performers will gather in a themed tipi to host craft making and spooky storytelling sessions during the half term break.
A ‘House of Bones’ will host animal bones, skulls and x-rays, along with a special bone and x-ray trail leading visitors around the zoo, where they will be challenged to test their animal knowledge.
Rosie Sims, Public Engagement Manager at Bristol Zoo Project, said: “We love this time of year at the zoo and are gearing up for lots of fun and entertainment for children and families over the half term holiday.
“Not only is there an opportunity to have fun making crafts and listening to stories in the witch’s tipi, our bones and x-ray trail also gives visitors the chance to learn more about some of the different animals who live here at Bristol Zoo Project. At the end of the trail there’s also a little ‘trick or treat’ surprise where those feeling brave can reach into a box to reveal a mystery item and take a tasty treat.
“Autumn is the perfect time to visit. As well as animals from across the world, there is so much amazing British wildlife to discover around the zoo. Being immersed in nature brilliant for children and adults’ wellbeing.”
The witch’s camp will be open from 10.30am to 3.30pm until October 29, and the bone and x-ray trail will continue until November 5.
All of the Howl-oween activities are included in general admission prices and under twos go free.
Owned by Bristol Zoological Society, Bristol Zoo Project will become a new conservation zoo over the coming years, where around 80 percent of animals will be linked to its conservation work.
Construction is expected to start in 2024 and will include the creation of new spaces for animals with new species, visitor facilities, exciting play areas and a conservation campus for students, vets and the breeding of threatened animals.
To find out more about Howl-oween and to book tickets, visit bristolzoo.org.uk. Book a day before your visit or earlier, for 10% off.
Here are 11 photos of the brown bears and wolverines enjoying their pumpkins. Photos by George Cuevas.
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