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New Ssssspecies for Folly Farm

NEW SSSSSPECIES AT FOLLY FARM

The arrival of two Royal Pythons brings a new species of reptile to Folly Farm and a whole new interactive experience

Photo: Ellie Bartlett, Folly Interactive's Senior Keeper, with Royal Python's Monty and Mufasa

27 October 2010, Folly Farm, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire:  The arrival of two Royal Pythons for the Folly Interactive zone has created a real buzz of excitement amongst staff at the popular attraction near Tenby.  The purpose of the snake's inclusion in the Pets' Centre, which this Winter will see its transformation to Folly Interactive complete, is to create a close encounter for visitors who may already be reptile fans or who may need a bit of encouragement to get hands on with these cold-blooded creatures.  Just in time to be included in the attraction's special Creepy Encounters event for Halloween Half Term, Monty and Mufasa, will join Folly Farm's stunning collection of owls, spiders and giant land snails for an interactive experience not to be missed.

Tim Morphew, Zoo Manager at Folly Farm, enthused; "For those visitors who love snakes our new arrivals are going to be a real hit and for those who are a little nervous our creepy encounters are the perfect vehicle to de-mystify some of the pre-conceptions about these reptiles. 

"Contrary to popular belief snakes are not cold, wet, slimy or scary and I'm hoping these close encounters will go some way to convincing our visitors of how wonderful these creatures are!"

Monty (Python!) was donated to Folly Farm by a member of the public no longer able to provide a home for him and luckily the offer came at a time when Folly Farm was looking to source a Royal Python.  Monty's tale ended up a happy one but serves as a cautionary reminder that owning exotic pets is a huge commitment and they take a considerable amount of looking after. 

Tim warned; "Your local zoo will not always be in a position to step in and provide a home for unwanted pets so please think seriously about the level of commitment and care required before buying an exotic pet."
www.theroyalpython.co.uk is a useful website with information about owning and caring for a Royal Python.

The Folly Farm Pets' Centre is undergoing an extensive makeover this Winter and will launch next Spring as Folly Interactive, providing visitors with an interactive and educational animal-based sensory experience.

-Ends-

For press enquiries please contact;

Zoe Wright
PR and Marketing Manager
Tel: 01834 815032
Email: zoe@folly-farm.co.uk

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