|
Curraghs Wildlife Park
Ballaugh, Isle of Man
Located on the southern edge of the Ballaugh Curraghs in the north of the Isle of
Man, a 26 acre site is home to the internationally famous Curraghs Wildlife Park.
The most important wildlife conservation site on the island, there are in total
34 species of mammal (145 specimens), 64 species of birds (202 specimens) and 6
species of reptile (43 specimens).
The animals live in large geographical enclosures where they roam freely, designed
with their natural habitats in mind. The different walk-through enclosures show
animals from the same part of the world together as they'd be in the wild, African
Bush, Asian Swamp, European Marsh, Amazon Forest, American Trail, The Outback and
The Pampas – you can travel around the world in 80 minutes!
The Curraghs Wildlife Park emphasises on wetland species and breeds many animals
such as: tapirs, otters, red pandas, scarlet ibis and demoiselle cranes. On top
of this, the various marmosets and monkeys, fishing cats and lynx, macaws and parrots
mean there are a huge variety of animals on show. The fruit bat exhibit which is
part of 'Life on Islands' (a depiction of evolution and conservation) is a new addition
as well as a new enclosure for Alaotran gentle lemurs. There are more specific exhibits
in the centre of the Wildlife Park, dealing with evolution, habitat loss and domestication.
It is not just animals either. There is an abundance of native wildlife too such
as colourful orchids and stately royal fern with many rare flowers growing here
in the summer. Birds such as ravens (which can be seen flying the Park every day)
peregrine falcons, sparrowhawks, merlins and herons can sometimes be seen around
the grounds Other attractions at the Curraghs Wildlife Park include the nature trails
which allow you to explore the variety of habitats, winding through different parts
of the Curraghs. Relax and enjoy butterflies, birds, wetland insects, animals and
flowers.
The lakeside café provides refreshments whilst the picnic area allows visitors to
bring their own refreshments and enjoy them in beautiful surroundings. The outdoor
adventure play area and indoor play area (for under-8s) keeps the youngsters amused,
whilst on summer weekends and bank holidays, the miniature Orchid Line Railway runs
around the centre of the Park. Disabled access is good, several wheelchairs are
available to borrow, and there is a large free car park.
Website:
www.gov.im/wildlife/
|
Isle of Man Tourist Attractions
|
Attractions to visit in Isle of Man:
Laxey Water Wheel, Laxey
Groudle Glen Railway, Douglas
Gaiety Theatre, Douglas
Curraghs Wildlife Park, Ballaugh
Langness Lighthouse, Castletown
Sound Visitor Centre, Cregneash
Snaefell Mountain Railway, Laxey
Onchan Pleasure Park, Onchan
House of Manannan, Peel
Tower of Refuge, Douglas
Maughold Head Lighthouse, Ramsey
Peel Bay, Bay
Peel Castle, Peel
Manx Electric Railway
|
Isle of Man Tourist Attractions
|
|