From September, for the first time ever, visitors to wildlife park and conservation charity, Wildwood Escot, in Ottery St Mary, near Sidmouth, will be able to get closer than ever before to some of England’s most iconic species, with the Park’s exclusive new ‘Feeding Encounters’.
Featuring wolves, red squirrels and a much-loved arctic fox, these really wild new experiences will take people behind the scenes and nose-to-nose with some of Wildwood’s most popular residents.
Animal-lovers will be accompanied by Escot’s experienced keeper team, who will share insights and anecdotes about the animals in their care, and answer any questions about life in the Park, before guiding guests through the once-in-a-lifetime encounters.
George Hyde, General Manager at Wildwood Escot, explains; ”We are thrilled to offer visitors the chance to personally meet some of our incredible animals. The new experiences will give people a flavour of what life is like behind the scenes at Escot, see firsthand what it's like to care for these iconic animals and, hopefully, inspire them to connect with our wild British roots.
“The experiences are all unique, so whether you want to see what it’s like to come nose-to-nose with a wolf, like our ancestors may have in the forests of England, hand-feed adorable red squirrels or fall under the spell of our beautiful Arctic Fox, Lyra, there’s something for every animal lover.”
The ‘Wolf Feeding Encounter’ is a meet and greet with Wildwood Escot’s pack of six European wolves. Guests will be invited to hand-feed the pack and, if they are lucky, get close enough to smell their breath!
The ‘Red Squirrel Feeding Encounter’ brings visitors face-to-face with perhaps one of Britain’s most iconic species. Before the Park opens to the public, participants will enjoy unrivalled access to Wildwood’s red squirrel woodland enclosure and experience the tickling feeling of having a squirrel nibble treats from their hand, a memory which will last long after the treats have been eaten.
Finally, Arctic Fox, Lyra, who is quite the character, will play host to guests who are ready to be enchanted by her beauty. With full access to her home, participants will be invited to serve up her main meal of the day, while learning about this stunning species.
As well as an unforgettable experience, the new animal experiences will play an important part in supporting Wildwood Escot’s conservation work and the charity’s aim to protect and preserve native British wildlife by raising vital funds..
To find out more, or to book, visit: www.devon.wildwoodtrust.org