The Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay

The warm weather is upon us and here at Pen-y-Bryn we love to get outdoors and enjoy it. And what better way to spend a lovely day out than at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, also known as Colwyn Bay Zoo? The zoo is home to hundreds of animals, from Camels to Chimps and Lemur's to Meerkats, so there is something for everyone in the family.

The latest arrivals are the four adorable Emu chicks that were born at the end of February. Sydney, Melbourne, Bondai and Byron are growing up quickly and getting used to life at the zoo, where they are a hit with the visitors! There is also a new 'Red Panda Cam' available on the website so you can get an insight into the lives of the red panda's before your visit.

The Welsh Mountain Zoo says: 'Set in North Wales, high above Colwyn Bay with panoramic views and breathtaking scenery, beautiful gardens are home to our caring conservation zoo. Roam the wooded pathways, relax on the grassy slopes and spend a lovely day learning about many rare and endangered species from Britain and around the world including Snow Leopards, Chimpanzees, Red Pandas and Sumatran Tigers!'

Interactive animal sessions are available at the zoo. Animal Encounter is for children between the ages of 7 to 16, while Zoo Keeper for a day is for ages 16 and over. Both experiences offer a chance to get up close to the animals and feed them, with some 'mucking out' for the older guests. A trained member of staff stays with you at all times during this exciting introduction into caring for some of the worlds most loved animals.

There are various animal shows on offer every day at the zoo. 'Sea Lion Feeding and Training' and the 'Chimp Encounter Show', are among the shows that are hosted by trained staff and volunteers. These popular sessions are educational and entertaining and as much fun for the animals and hosts as they are for the visitors!

The zoo gardens are also home to some rare and endangered plants, with seeds from Chile, Central and far Eastern Russia and the Himalayas finding a new home in the zoo's 37 acres. The plant collections continue to grow and self guided trails taking in the gardens can be printed off from the website to be taken with you on your visit.

For more information, including current prices and opening hours, please visit www.welshmountainzoo.org. The zoo is open every day except Christmas day and severe weather days. Animal Encounter and Zoo Keeper For The Day must be booked in advance. The zoo is a 20 minute drive from Pen-y-Bryn so come and stay with us at North Wales Holiday Cottages and visit the Welsh Mountain Zoo Colwyn Bay, The National Zoo of Wales.