Elephantastic! Meet some of zoo’s big beasts

Visitors will learn how the zoo cares for its elephants

Through elephant encounters, family activities and fascinating talks, the event will raise money for international science and conservation charity ZSL’s Asian elephant conservation and research projects.

Visitors can enjoy their very own close-up experience with an elephant, feed it a healthy snack and have their photo taken, in exchange for a small donation towards elephant conservation work.

Young and old alike will discover what it takes to look after such huge creatures at a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the elephant barn. For two special days, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo visitors will be able to watch keepers scrub the elephants clean, learn how vets keep the zoo’s ten Asian elephants healthy and enjoy talks and demonstrations.

There will be so many ways to have fun with the children too, whether it’s making elephant masks, face-painting or dancing along to the sounds of Asia.

And a silent auction and a raffle will offer unusual prizes, such as beautiful elephant-themed artworks and animal encounters.

Asian elephants are classified as Endangered by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species,

Elephantastic runs from 10am to 5pm on Saturday September 19 and Sunday September 20 . Normal entry charges of £25 adults and £18 children for children apply. Under-threes go free. Visit www.zsl.org for more.