WATCH: New double humped camels arrive at Marwell Zoo with free entry offer

Marwell Zoo is celebrating the arrival of two new camels with a free entry offer.

Gary and Lemmy, the domestic Bactrian camels have arrived at Marwell Zoo, bringing double the humps and plenty of character.

To celebrate their arrival, Marwell is offering free entry to the zoo from today (Saturday April 25) to Friday May 1 for anyone named Gary – and for anyone named Lemmy.

Standing at over seven feet tall and weighing up to 1,800 pounds, Bactrian camels are hard to miss – and unlike their Arabian relatives, they have two humps rather than one. The camels are already proving to be big characters at Marwell.

Senior animal keeper Darren Ives said: “It’s very exciting to have camels back at Marwell again – the first time since 2018. They’ve already brought a lot of character with them. Camels can be very stubborn, as we found out from Gary, who was quite happy in the transporter and didn’t want to leave, but they’re also incredibly inquisitive and great fun to work with.

“Although these aren’t the wild Bactrian camel, which are Critically Endangered, we can still learn a great deal and contribute to research while caring for domestic Bactrian camels here at Marwell. It’s fantastic for visitors to be able to connect with them up close.”

While Gary and Lemmy are settling into their new home, sightings of both camels can’t be guaranteed. They are visible while the team completes necessary checks, although do not yet have access to the entire field. Visitors can still see them from the fenceline near the Okapi playground, and there is still plenty for visitors to enjoy across the zoo.

To claim the offer, visitors need to present a valid photo ID on the gate. Free entry to the zoo is valid for one person named Gary (or Lemmy), cannot be booked online, and applies to standard zoo day entry only.

Additional visitors can book online or pay on arrival. Children must be accompanied by an adult, the offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion, and Marwell Wildlife reserves the right to withdraw it without prior notice.

To find out more about becoming a Marwell member, book tickets and discover the latest animal news, visit www.marwell.org.uk