Sunlight breaking through the trees in the New Forest
Silver dorking chick
Sparsholt College is once again hosting an Easter Bunny and Chick Weekend, 29 March – 1 April 2013 for all those looking for something chocolatey, fluffy, outdoors and fun. Set amongst the College’s Animal Management Centre, families can meet the Easter bunny and the newly hatched chicks, enjoy an Easter egg hunt and take part in craft activities*. Feathered and fluffy fun starts at 9.30am until 4.00pm.
Naturally being a college there will be the opportunity for young visitors to learn more about the many other animals living at the College including Meerkats, Wallabies, the ever popular Red Pandas and a wide range of reptiles. New avian species on view this year include a colony of Black-Cheeked Lovebirds and pretty Gouldian Finches.
For those whose thoughts are turning to gardens Sparsholt College’s renowned Horticulture Department will be selling a selection of seasonal plants and there will also be the opportunity to purchase other souvenirs from the day.
Animal Management Centre Deputy Manager Catharine Potter said: “Our Animal Management Centre is home to a huge variety of animals which our students are very fortunate to work with on a day to day basis. The Easter Bunny and Chick Weekend is the perfect time to open this facility up to the wider community to enjoy some springtime entertainment and meet our wonderful array of animal residents.’”
Sparsholt has a collection of over 600 animals from more than 100 species which incorporate a variety of birds, an exemplary collection of herptiles and a number of large and exotic animals.
A number of the birds and animals are listed as endangered and form part of either a national or international breeding programme. The College achieved zoo licensing status in 2006 and is a full member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquarium (BIAZA).
The entrance fee is £15 per family (for 2 adults and 2 children), thereafter £5 per adult, and £3.50. Free car parking and disabled parking available. Sorry, no dogs with the exception of assistance dogs. Refreshments will be available to purchase on the day.
*Most activities are free, though some may incur a small charge.
