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March 2004

Penguins set to make a splash at Paultons Park this Easter

The spectacular new Penguin Pool at Paultons is one of three new attractions expected to be top of every visitor’s wish list as the Park prepares for the busy Easter period. The pool will be officially opened on Friday 2nd April by BBC TV celebrity Chris Packham, but has already proved to be a great favourite with Park visitors.

“ We have introduced keeper talks and feeding sessions twice a day that have been extremely popular with all visitors, young and old. The talks are both entertaining and educational so people can learn more about these fascinating birds whilst enjoying themselves” enthuses Geoff Masson, Paultons Livestock Manager. “We regularly have a large audience watching the feeding sessions which is made possible by the special viewing area adjacent to the pool”.

The pool is home to 18 Humboldt penguins that have arrived at the Park from zoos across the UK earlier in the year. It features two large underwater windows giving visitors a unique view of the penguins diving beneath the surface.

The Humboldt penguin originates from Peru, in South America which has a climate not that dissimilar to the United Kingdom. Humboldt Penguins are an endangered species and Paultons are hoping to breed the Penguins in coming years. Geoff Masson said, “The Penguins quickly settled in to their new surroundings here at Paultons. We have placed nesting boxes on the island in the centre of the Pool and are keeping our fingers crossed that we may have some new arrivals in the future ”.

The Penguins add to Paultons already extensive bird collection which now totals more than 150 different species including what is believed to be the largest collection of Hornbills in the country.

Also new at Paultons for 2004 are two thrilling vertical drop rides, Jumping Bean and Jumping Jack which give visitors the chance to experience the excitement of free-falling. The three new attractions mean that Paultons now has over 50 rides and attractions included in the entrance price.

Paultons Park is open every day from 10am and offers a range of ‘supersaver’ tickets for family groups. For more details call 023 8081 4442 or visit www.paultonspark.co.uk.

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For further information please contact:
Rob Griffiths - Marketing Manager
Paultons Park Limited, Ower, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6AL.
Telephone: 023 8081 4442 Fax: 023 8081 3025

Editors Notes: Paultons Park is just off exit 2 of the M27, near Romsey in Hampshire. Open 10am daily from 3rd March 2005– 29th October 2006
Additional Images: Available via email, CD or prints upon request.