Howletts and Port Lympne - A day out in kent and adopt an animal

PLANT CONSERVATION DAY AT ANIMAL PARKS

KENT WILD ANIMAL PARKS CELEBRATE WORLD’S FLORA ON PLANT CONSERVATION DAY

Kent Wild Animal Parks are celebrating the importance of plants to people and the planet - on 16th May at Howletts and 17th May at Port Lympne.

Commented David Sutton, Head Gardener at Howletts:

“Despite our daily reliance on the flora of the world for our existence, plants are the most threatened species on Earth. Plants give us the food we eat, the water we drink, and the medicines that protect us, along with the raw materials for our homes and clothes, but most importantly, the air we breathe. If they all disappear, so will we.”

As many as 100,000 plant species are threatened with extinction today. Reducing the threats to plants in their native habitats is a priority for conservationists worldwide. Botanic gardens and zoos have a very important role in plant conservation. On Plant Conservation Day, Howletts and Port Lympne are promoting plant conservation efforts and helping to raise public awareness of the importance of plants to people and as the backbone of all wildlife habitats.

Plant Conservation Day activities at Howletts and Port Lympne will be celebrated with fun activities for kids and families. Children will have the opportunity to pot a plant, take it home and nurture it. There will also be guided tours of either the majestic parklands of Howletts or the extensive landscaped gardens of Port Lympne, surrounding the elegant mansion.

Originally a joint effort between the American Association of Zoological Horticulture and Botanic Gardens Conservation International, Plant Conservation Day is being celebrated by individuals at zoos, botanic gardens, and other conservation organisations around the world.

To support this Howletts and Port Lympne have joined with Hadlow College and with the co-operation of Brogdale, the home of the national fruit collection, to organise a weekend to raise awareness of conservation efforts.

Visitors booking in advance by contacting 01303 264647 will receive discounted entry of 10% and a free guided tour. Normal entry prices will apply throughout the weekend. ENDS

PRESS INFORMATION:

Tricia Corkhill, Media Relations Manager

Tel: 01303 234134 / 07989 858973

©The Aspinall Foundation – Registered Charity 326567.
The Howletts Wild Animal Trust Limited Registered company no. 4711904, Registered charity no. 1100845
Registered office: Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Lympne, Nr Hythe, Kent, CT21 4PD

Totallywild.net is the official website promoting the charitable work of The Aspinall Foundation in protecting endangered species. The Howletts and Port Lympne wild animal, safari and wildlife parks are the UK based sites for endangered animal conservation. Unlike ordinary zoos, these parks allow visitors to see conservation in action, providing kids, families and adults alike with a wide variety of ‘Totally Wild’ fun days out, packed with exciting activities for the whole family. Our landscaped gardens and mansion house can also be hired for weddings, events and other functions.

All revenues raised through ticket sales support our animal conservation work and breeding programmes, so please, do come and visit us for your day out in Kent and do your bit for conservation!