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Going on safari in Africa or trekking through the rainforests of Brazil is something that many of us can only dream of. However, you can enjoy this experience a lot closer to home by taking advantage of one of Jersey's popular attractions. Durrell Wildlife Park is situated just four miles from the island's capital St Helier and as well as being a fun visitors' attraction, it also does a lot of good worldwide. It is run by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, which was set up to conserve habitats and create techniques to protect threatened species. The main aim of the project is to ensure the world's most endangered animals are pulled from the brink of extinction. Many threatened animals live in the park itself, and the trust carries out an important breeding programme to ensure their numbers do not keep declining. Read on to learn more about this fun attraction. See thousands of animals In total, 1,400 individual creatures call the park home - and they have plenty of space to roam as it stretches over 32 acres of parkland and even well-manicured gardens. It's not all about cute and furry critters either, as there are also numerous birds, reptiles and amphibians to see. You can see tree frogs with brightly coloured and patterned skin, a majestic blue iguana, huge komodo dragon, well-armoured spiny turtle and cheeky echo parakeet. Among the mammals, there are beasts large and small to see, ranging from the golden lion tamarind to the Andean bear. The emperor tamarind is always a hit with kids thanks to its long white moustache, while the slender-tailed meerkat and pygmy hog will win their hearts. Meet endangered creatures Among the most endangered animals to live in the park are the three generations of Sumatran orang-utans. These majestic animals are the most threatened of the six species of giant ape due to the destruction of their forest homes. Orang-utans have lived in the park since 1968 and seven babies have been born here during this time, making a valuable contribution to the breeding programme. Another giant ape you can see is the western lowland gorilla. These gentle giants have resided at the park since it opened in 1959, with the first being N'Pongo - who lived to the age of 42. So far, 15 new babies have been delivered here, which is great for this endangered species. Learn from the experts While simply seeing these beautiful animals is a great experience in itself, you can make it even better by learning about them from the experts. The park runs several schemes that allow you to get a glance at what goes on behind the scenes. You can help out with the keepers or even watch a vet treating the creatures that live here. Alternatively, you can make your way to Lemur Lake to find out about this complex and lively community. Spend the night Perhaps the most exciting thing about Durrell Wildlife Park is that it is now possible to spend the night here. You can book a luxury pod and enjoy camping - or glamping - out under the stars. The pods are kitted out with double beds, kitchen and washing facilities and a deck where you can spend a few hours sunbathing and relaxing. Plus, as part of staying at the campsite you get unlimited access to the park - so you don't have to rush to see it all in a single day. Durrell Wildlife Park is just one of Jersey's popular attractions - come and check it out for yourself!
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