Dragon

Took myself off to the Cotswold Wildlife park this afternoon but, you know, animals aren't stupid! The majority of the animal residents were all cosy and tucked up so I was walking round the virtually empty grounds till about sunset when they came out to stretch their legs and have room service.

This transpired to be all to the good as it forced me inside and I discovered that I absolutely love reptiles! This is a Bearded Dragon, not doing much but looking around, shot through glass. Apparently they are very friendly and calm, eat insects like crickets, along with leafy greens and are adept climbers. I didn't have much success in the bat house as it was far too dark to get a decent picture but I did try.

Overall there are a fascinating and varied collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates from all over the world, with conservation and breeding programmes. There is minimum fencing and lovely gardens so worth a visit especially for children. Everything was exceptionally clean and tidy, and all the animals looked so very well cared for.

This visit did take me back to when we took our kids round years ago, as I told Mrs Heyworth the current owner when she stopped me to chat about my photographing a bronze sculpture which she and her husband had bought at an auction many moons ago. She seemed really pleased that I was taking an interest in it.

A place to go back to when it is a bit more sunny I think.

Not entirely sure why the picture quality isn't as good here on blip. This is SOOC apart from a tiny crop and the focus is ok on mine so not really sure? It looks much better larger!