Linton Zoo has asked people to donate their Christmas trees to its animals rather than throw them on the rubbish pile.

Greenery is important to the zoo’s animals, so live rooted and growing trees can be given a second chance at life by being planted in one of the animal enclosures.

Zoo director Kim Simmons said: “Trees without roots can be used to decorate our aviaries and as enrichment for many of our animals including the lions, tigers and snow leopards.

“Once the cut trees have dried out they are used as fuel for our Bio-burner, this provides additional heating and hot water to help run our zoo at this very expensive, cold time of year.”

She added: “We’ve had a fantastic response to our appeal already. Trees can be left at the front gate or on the drive if we’re closed.”

Watch the following clips of animals playing with Christmas trees.

Links to video clips:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Y5CiSTmwJo

www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q-clRhJegM

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJvWWOutseI

www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAJN-WqSaVM

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mgh6393UYAI