Like other attractions in the area, we got hit badly by Storm Goretti, which caused considerable damage to animal enclosures and trees across the zoo’s 40-acre site.

Thankfully all our animals were unharmed by the heavy snowfall, but only now with the snow subsiding are we able to truly assess the devastation it left in its wake.

The main casualty has been Flamingo Falls, the netted habitat for our 21-strong flock of Chilean and American flamingos at the zoo’s entrance, which in parts, has been destroyed.

All our flamingos and red breasted geese are currently safe and well in their indoor area, but we’re looking at a total rebuild of their outdoor habitat, estimated at a cost well in excess of £75,000.

As a non-profit charity, we rely entirely on the support of visitors, supporters and members, who not only enable us to continue our education and conservation work with wildlife across the globe but also help us care for some amazing animals on site.