Wednesday 12 June 2013

Tamar Otter & wildlife center

Whilst spending a few days away in Cornwall with my family, I discovered this fantastic little place near Launceston. It is owned & run by Mandy & John Allen & funded totally by income received from visitors. British & Asian (Short toed) otters can be seen in several open enclosures with low fences affording great close up views when they come out to feed. They are fed twice during opening hours & the noise has to be heard to be believed especially from the Short-toed otters. Artificial holt's are built into the enclosures some with glass tops so you can also peer into the sleeping chambers where they retire after feeding.
Its not just Otters though. They also have a woodland walk with Fallow & Muntjac deer, Wallaby's & Turkeys. Aviaries are dotted through the woods with raptors & Owls. Feed bags can be bought to hand feed the deer & numerous Peacock & chickens, great fun! Various talks are given throughout the day & are very informative. You also will get opportunities to handle owls & birds of prey.
At the end of the woodland walk in a small disused quarry, is another enclosure that I was quite keen to see. This houses the centers Scottish wildcats but unfortunately they can be hard to see & I never got so much of a glimpse while I was there. This could be a great excuse to go back though!
The center has a picnic site, award winning cafe & small shop for souvenir's. The terrain is easy going & gravel paths are throughout.
The place has a friendly atmosphere & the keepers are always around to answer any questions.
Please visit the website at http://www.tamarotters.co.uk/Welcome.html for more information & if you are in the area or live close by, please pay a visit. You wont be disappointed.