The Cotswold Wildlife Park opened to the public in 1970 and the Park’s founder John Heyworth still plays an active role in what is now one of the major UK's zoological attractions welcoming over 300,000 visitors a year. Over the years the animal collection has expanded to allow visitors to appreciate one of the most diverse collections of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects in the country, including many endangered species. The larger animals include the Asiatic lions, zebras, Amur leopards, Bactrian camels and White rhinos; at the other end of the size spectrum is the fascinating colony of Leaf-cutting ants from Trinidad, and the family of highly poisonous Emperor Scorpions.

An exciting exhibit which opened in 2008 is the Madagascar Walk-through, where visitors have the opportunity to get up close to a variety of free-roaming lemurs and bird species in a spectacular setting. Visitors are invited to walk around the 160 acres of parkland where there are plenty of picnicking areas, a children’s farmyard, adventure playground, a large lake with many species of waterfowl and a group of Chilean flamingos. A narrow-gauge railway provides an interesting ride and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and landscaping of the Park.

Facilities are excellent with good access for wheelchairs and buggies. The large self-service Oak Tree Restaurant provides a comprehensive menu with a choice of hot or cold snacks or full meals.
There is ample free car and coach parking. For full information on the Park and the events which take place during the summer months see www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk or ring 01993 823006 for information leaflets.

COMPETITION

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is offering you the chance of winning one of five tickets granting one adult and one child free entry into the park by answering the following THREE questions. The answers can be found on their website at www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk 
Answer all three questions correctly and you could be the lucky winner!

1. At the park guests are invited to listen to talks and learn about the Penguins during feeding time every morning and afternoon, something both children and adults alike will find most interesting. At what time during the morning do the penguins enjoy feeding time?

2. The Cotswold Wildlife Park runs an Animal Adoption Scheme, a fantastic gift for someone special. Name three of the six goodies that come with the adoption pack?

3. Leopards and the resident White Rhino can be found in the South Section of the park along with a variety of other large mammal species. Name one of the other larger mammal species found in the South Section of the park?

If you’ve found the answers to ALL of the questions please send all entries along with your contact details to COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK COMPETITION, The Shires Magazine, Graphic House, Druid Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1QH or email them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it along with your name, address and telephone number.

The closing date for all entries is Friday 8 January 2010  (Winner notified by telephone)