By Elizabeth Hunter
Kangaroos and wallabies have been spotted scratching and chewing on second-hand Christmas trees at a wildlife park.
The animals were photographed as part of an appeal by Auchingarrich Wildlife Park near Crieff in Scotland.
It urged members of the public to bring their old Christmas trees to be used as food and habitats for animals across the park.
A spokesperson said: ”Here our Grey Western Kangaroo, Bennets Wallaby and Parma Wallaby are enjoying the tasty treat in the snow.
”If you have a Christmas Tree, without tinsel, decorations or any snow or glitter sprays then you can drop it off with us at Auchingarrich.
”Did you know that Christmas trees, specifically Pine, Fir, and Spruce, offer a delightful snack for a variety of animals?
”Not only are they a natural decongestant and wormer, but some trees are also rich in Vitamin C and A.
”We have been pleasantly surprised by the number of animals that can benefit from these trees.
”Even if the animals cannot consume the trees directly, our dedicated keepers have found a way to utilize them for enrichment purposes.
”By hiding food within the branches, creatures like Otters, Lemurs, and marmosets can enjoy a stimulating experience.
”Once the animals have finished feasting, our larger residents, including Guanacos, Pigs, Deer, and Highland Cattle, utilize the trees as scratch posts.
”On the other hand, smaller animals like Chickens, Ducks, Owls, Monkeys and Meerkats find fun and shelter within the branches.
”’When the trees have served their purpose, we chip them and repurpose them as bedding.
”The aromatic nature of the trees acts as a natural repellent against insects and bugs, making it an ideal bedding material. Additionally, Christmas Tree bedding is perfect for animals with respiratory issues, as it is free from dust and mites.
”Any remaining trees that cannot be used for bedding are transformed into soft pathways, protecting the ground from becoming muddy and safeguarding the animals’ delicate feet.
”As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, we also take cuttings and propagate new hedges, contributing to our green highways project.
”Finally, we compost the trees and reintegrate them into the land or use them as mulch for our new flower beds. This incredible project has received overwhelming support from businesses, communities, and individuals alike.
”If you donate your old tree you’ll get one free cuppa in the Dizzy Duck Cafe as a thank you.”
