be sharing some of our experiences with you to encourage you to go “Out & About” yourselves and maybe learn a little bit about this beautiful place we call home.

On a warm and sunny Saturday morning Ashlee, Miriam and I set off to visit one of our favourite places, Terra Natura in Benidorm. Our mission was to try and catch a glimpse of one of the newest editions, a baby Rhino called “Duna”.

We were all excited as being regular visitors to Terra over the years we have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the previous baby Rhino “Shusto” grow and become strong before he was moved to a Zoo in Northern Ireland as part of the International Breeding Program.

Upon arrival we checked the timetable, saw what time the Rhinos were going to be fed and headed over to their enclosure. Once there we waited in anticipation as although both Mummy and “Duna” were out they were in a part of the enclosure that we couldn’t see very well. Then suddenly there was movement and to the gasps of the waiting crowd “Duna” finally stepped out from beside her Mum.

The three of us were delighted and agreed that she was really cute. Under the watchful eye of her Mum, “Duna” made her way to the food. It was a lovely sight and they both looked happy and content. At the moment the Dad has been separated from them but they will gradually allow more contact between them, with the ultimate goal being for the family to be together once “Duna” is bigger.

Next on our list was feeding time at the Tiger enclosure, it was great to see this loving family enjoy their meal. The family is made up of White Tiger Dad, Tiger Mum and their 3 fully grown cubs. We stopped off at the fish, crocodiles, vampire bats and chicks before having some lunch. Ashlee and Miriam then played in the park and on the adventure climbing area.

Our final stop was in the Europa area of the zoo where everyone was beginning to gather to watch the Mummy Family Show and enjoy the Holiween Party. As regular readers will know, one of the highlights of our Summers is the Holi Festival (paint throwing) that Terra Natura has to celebrate “Petita” the Indian Elephant’s birthday in August every year. Last year was the first time they incorporated a holi celebration with Halloween and it was amazing. Needless to say it is now another of our favourite events to attend.

As the night started to draw in, we watched the Mummy Show as the crowd started to grow and the atmosphere change. Before we knew it we were queuing up to get our bags of fluorescent powder paint. We found a spot, put our hats and goggles on, opened our bags and got ready for the festival to begin.

Finally a countdown started ….. 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 then an explosion of colours flew into the air. It was amazing to see everyone jumping around and glowing in the dark, with the help of the massive UV lights!! Animated skeletons and ghosts were flying around the buildings and we all sang and danced around to the music that was blasting out of the speakers. It was really great fun and we loved every minute of it.

We absolutely love Terra Natura and have been annual pass holders for many years now.

They are fully involved in International breeding and welfare programs and have an amazing and diverse range of animals to see. They currently have a special offer on entry prices and until the 29th February 2020 it will only cost €20 per ticket. Check out their website for tickets and details of upcoming events.
www.terranatura.com

Ashlee and I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and hope you will enjoy hearing about the adventures we take in 2020.