If you’re heading out to Al Ain this weekend for the Aerobatic Show, now is a good time to enjoy some nice weather (if we end up having any) at the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort (AWPR).

Home to around 4,300 of the UAE’s most endangered animals – celebrated in this week’s issue (see page 20) – the park has become something of a champion of conservation in the region, with successful breeding programmes boosting numbers of these endangered species for the first time in decades.

Hosting educational workshops and activities for every age group, the park seeks to inspire as well as entertain the next generation of conservationists.

February is also a great time to visit as the park is teeming with lots of cute furry little babies! AWPR is currently celebrating these new arrivals with its ‘Zoo Babies’ promotion, which will run until 26th February, 2011.

Looking to learn more about the newborns and AWPR’s conservation efforts and breeding programmes?

Visitors are invited to meet the keepers who have helped the animals through the breeding process and are now looking after these zoo babies and their mothers. It’s a real hands-on experience, with everyone able to enjoy up close and personal encounters with their favourite animals.

With its café, convenient trolley car and interesting shows, you can make a day of it or just spend a few fun and informative hours exploring the park.

Laura Fulton