Conservation and classification skills are focus of trip

The Year 7 Science trip to Whipsnade Zoo gave the boys the opportunity to learn more about the role of the modern zoo and climate change – as well as seeing the animals.

“The macaws that formed part of the birds of paradise exhibit and the sea lion exhibition were particularly popular with the boys,” said Science teacher David Crouch, who led the visit. “They were also able to choose from six lectures by zoo research staff on topics such as taxonomy.”

The zoo is one of Europe’s largest wildlife conservation parks, covering 600 acres in the Chilterns. It is home to nearly 3,000 animals, many of which are from species endangered in the wild.

“Although the majority of the animals are kept in enclosures, others, such as the peacocks and wallabies, roam freely around the park,” said Dr Crouch. “We packed in as much as activity we possibly could. The boys went round in small groups, each with a teacher, investigating lions, tigers, cheetahs and white rhinos, amongst many other creatures. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and highly informative day.”