COLCHESTER Zoo is hosting another late night event as part of its extended hours programme.

The Starlight Safari Night event is back today, September 24, meaning the Zoo will extend its opening hours into the evening.

Remaining open until 9.30pm, visitors can experience the adventure like never before, getting up close to the wildlife in the twilight hours.

There will be a variety of experiences for animal encounters, with the full timetable below.

  • 5pm: Pygmy Hippopotamus Inside – Kingdom of the Wild
  • 5pm: Red Panda – Wilds of Asia
  • 5.10pm: African Paddock Animals – Kingdom of the Wild (Outside paddock)
  • 5.20pm: Chimpanzee – Chimpanzee Lookout
  • 5.40pm: Patagonian Sea Lion – Playa Patagonia
  • 5.40pm: Mandrill Monkey – Edge of Africa
  • 6pm: Cheetah – Edge of Africa
  • 6pm: Gelada Baboon – Gelada Plateau
  • 6.20pm: Humboldt Penguin – Inca Trail
  • 6.40pm: Amur Tiger – Tiger Taiga
  • 6.40pm: Komodo Dragon – Dragons of Komodo
  • 7pm: Smooth-coated Otter – Otter Creek
  • 7pm: Spotted Hyena – Edge of Africa
  • 7pm: African Elephant – Elephant Kingdom (Outside paddock)
  • 7.20pm: Slender-tailed Meerkat – Suricata Sands
  • 7.40pm: Malayan Sun Bear – Bears of the Rising Sun (Upper viewing area)
  • 8pm: Torchlight Patagonian Sea Lion – Playa Patagonia

A spokesman for the zoo said: “As the temperature drops and the senses sharpen you will have the chance to see some of our animals in a whole new light, as some bed down for the evening whilst for others the night is just beginning.

“Plus, we have a range of fun-filled activities taking place into the evening, including tales under the stars and marimba music from Otto and The Mutapa Calling, at no extra cost.

“All guests are advised to bring a torch when visiting on our Starlight Safari Nights.”

For passholders, the event is free, so simply turn up on the day and bring with you your valid zoo pass to gain entry into the zoo.

For paying visitors there is no longer a requirement to pre-book tickets, however the Zoo recommend all non-passholders book their tickets online in advance to receive the best price on admission. 

For further information on the evening or to book, visit colchester-zoo.com/event/starlight-safari-night-24/.