On Wednesday 9 March, a healthy nanny kid was born to Mum, Bandit, who has now had her fourth and final litter.

The new arrival has been named Meradith by students from Myerscough College who support the rangers at the zoo.

Mother and daughter will remain at Walton and Dad, Casper, will be leaving for pastures new this year so that a new billy can be brought in.

Walton’s zoo rangers are thrilled with the new arrival. Longstanding ranger, Peter Cookson-Dean, who’s worked at the zoo for nearly 40 years, said: “I’m so pleased that we’ve got a healthy baby this year. I’m so proud of Bandit, she a fantastic Mum and has always had twins in previous litters, so this makes her final litter a special one, with just one kid to care for.

“Meradith is beautiful and we’re hoping she will be on show to the public in time for the Easter holidays.”

Children and adults of all ages, and school groups, are welcome to come down to see the animals, from new-born to long in the tooth, at the zoo.

There are a range of educational tours for children from nursery right up to high school age. They can find out about animal senses, predators and prey, and learn all about rabbits, peacocks, goats, donkeys, alpacas, chickens and more.

Birthday parties can also be hosted at Children’s Zoo, offering a truly unique party experience for your little one.

And don’t forget about the famous alpaca walks where you can take our three amigos – Jim, Topaz and Mally – on a walk around the beautiful grounds, while learning a thing or two along the way.

For more information about our animals, educational tours, birthday parties, animal adoption, and alpaca walks, visit waltonhallgardens.co.uk/childrens-zoo.

The children's zoo opens daily at 10.30am and closes at 4.45pm in the summer and 4pm in the winter. Entry is free of charge.