Miliki and her baby

 Blackpool Zoo is appealing to the nation for telegraph pole poles or tall trees, which will help to build a climbing frame for gorillas.

 Since the birth of the zoos first ever Western Lowland Gorilla in May the gorillas have not been allowed to have access to part of their outdoor area as the surrounding moat would be too dangerous for the infant.

 The new climbing frame will entertain the band of gorillas and provide additional enrichment for the baby, which is just starting to explore it surroundings.

 There have already been lots of kind donations including lengths of fire hose from Lancashire Fire & Rescue and cargo nets from nearby Blackpool Airport. Soldiers at Deepdale Barracks have even agreed to build the structure.

 Jude Rothwell, Marketing and PR Coordinator at Blackpool Zoo, said: “The kindness of companies and people in our area never ceases to amaze us and we have almost everything we need to build a fantastic new climbing frame for our much loved gorillas.

 “We know that telegraph poles may be a bit of a ‘tall order’ but we hope that someone, somewhere, will have something suitable.

 “The birth of our beautiful baby gorilla was a cause for massive celebration earlier this year and the building of this new climbing frame, which will be enjoyed by all of our gorillas, will be the icing on the cake.”

 Collection can be arranged for any suitable materials. For more information or to donate please contact Jude Rothwell at Blackpool Zoo on 01253 830812 or email Judith.rothwell@blackpoolzoo.org.uk

The Mayor opens Active Oceans

The largest sea lion pool in the UK has officially been opened by the Mayor of Blackpool, Councillor Don Clapham, following a £1 million investment, as part of the Active Oceans marine area at Blackpool Zoo, underpinning its reputation as a leading North West attraction. Active Oceans also incorporates the very popular Magellanic penguin pool which opened in 2009.

A complete overhaul of the pool and its surround began last year and it has re-opened with its very own beach area and extended 250 seat amphitheatre.

Stylish mock rock has replaced the old concrete background and the cascading waterfalls are proving very popular with the sea lions.

Concrete walls and railings at either end of the enclosure have been demolished and replaced with reinforced glass, meaning visitors have a fantastic view of the sea lions as they frolic around.

A new male addition to head up the harem of females arrived from Spain on 19th May.

Click HERE for more information.