ANIMALS at an Oxfordshire wildlife park took advantage of Sunday’s snowy weather.

Mammal keepers at Cotswold Wildlife Park in Burford snapped some of the animals out enjoying the snow.

One of them was red panda Doodoo, who made full use of the conditions.

See also: Escaped goats cause havoc in the snow

Chris Kibbey, assistant animal manager at Cotswold Wildlife Park, said: “Although we are currently closed, keepers are still working daily to ensure all the animals are well cared for.

“A falling of snow has been welcomed by a few of the species, including the red pandas, camels and wolverine who would normally come from colder climates.

“Even the capybaras seemed to enjoy it, despite their relatives coming from South America.

“Any animals that aren’t a fan of this weather are provided with heated indoor enclosures.”

Oxford Mail: Stella the zebra shelters from the snow. Picture: Cotswold Wildlife ParkStella the zebra shelters from the snow. Picture: Cotswold Wildlife Park

While the weather is not ideal for tropical species at the park, for some, such as reindeer and pallas cats, this is their favourite time of year and are revelling in the conditions.

Critically endangered Bactrian camel Maggie had a roll around in the snow.

The camels are a prime example of environmental adaptation.

Notices: Hospital unit demolition and Park and Ride closure

They inhabit Central and East Asia’s rocky deserts where temperatures can reach over 37°C but can also drop to –28°C in winter.

Their thick, shaggy fur can cope with the freezing temperatures and it moults as the seasons change, allowing them to survive in the unrelenting heat.

It wasn’t just the wildlife enjoying the snow too, as head keeper Mark Godwin’s children, Henry and Mollie, even made a snow rhino at the park.