Alpacas belong to the South American camelid family, they are related to Llamas, Vicunas and Guanaros. They are indigenous to parts of Peru, Bolivia and China. They were traditionally bred by the Incas for their fleece which can be used to make high quality garments.
Be sure to stop a while at the deer park and don’t miss feeding time. We have 3 types of deer: Fallow, Japanese Sika & Red. Find out more on these types of deer by clicking the "Deer" link above.
Gloucestershire Old Spots originated in the Berkeley Vale on the southern shores of the river Seven. They were usually kept in the cider and Perry pear orchards of the area and on local dairy farms. Because of this they have also been called the Orchard Pig. Local folklore says that the spots on its back are the bruises from the falling fruit.
Anglo-Nubians were developed in England by crossing British goats with bucks of African and Indian origin. Its distinguishing characteristics include large, pendulous ears and a "Roman" nose. Due to their middle eastern heritage, Anglo-Nubians can live in very hot climates. You can find out more about the goats from 2.00-2.30 daily by coming along to our meet the goats sessions.
Guinea Pigs are mammals which belong to the rodent family having large incisor teeth that are continually growing necessitating gnawing to prevent the teeth from overgrowing. The word 'rodent' is derived from the latin word 'rodere' which means 'to gnaw'.
Two Kune Kune pigs have also recently arrived at the visitor attraction. Smaller and dumpier than standard pigs, and interestingly, the name Kune Kune (pronounced Cooney Cooney) means fat and round in Maori. Dobbies challenged locals in a competition to come up with cute names for the piggies - ‘Petal’ and ‘Blossom’ are now settling in well to their Plantasia home!
Hector and Horace are male Muscovy ducks, they are brothers and share a passion for food. Muscovy ducks are native to central and south America and live in the trees of forest swamps.
The Texel Sheep originates from the Island of Texel, one of the north-western Islands off Holland where it has been known since Roman times, the Texel produces a good quality fleece which is used for hosiery yarns and knitting wool.
The Shetland pony is a breed of pony originating in the Shetland Isles. They range in size from a minimum height of approximately 28 inches to 42 inches. Shetland ponies have heavy coats, short legs and are considered to be quite intelligent.
For £15 a year the ‘adopter’ receives: A personalised adoption certificate, a photograph of your adopted animal, a birthday and Christmas card, fact sheets, one free visit to see your animal along with an annual newsletter. Click here to download the adoption form.