ANIMAL-LOVING youngsters are being introduced to zoo-keeping by a South Cumbria wildlife charity.

Eager beavers can take a six week course at the Lakeland Wildlife Oasis, Milnthorpe, which teaches them everything from husbandry to habitats, with a bit of mucking-out thrown in for good measure.

Eight budding zoo-keepers, aged eight to 16, took part in the first ever course, which ended just before Christmas.

Another course will start on January 24 and run from 1pm-4pm every Saturday for six weeks.

Lakeland Wildlife Oasis boss Jo Marsden said: "The most common question our keepers are asked is how to get a job working with animals.

"Our courses are an introduction to zoo-keeping. It's somewhat condensed but nothing is missed out. It will help young people really understand what we do here."

The courses include a mixture of fun classroom-based activities, discussions and practical work.

Pupils learn why animals look the way they do and why certain types of enclosures suit different creatures.

There are also sessions on how and why keepers monitor animals' health and the right way to transport different types of animals, including insects and reptiles.

Lakeland Wildlife Oasis boasts attractions such as the rare snow leopard cubs Loki and Luna, who are there as part of breeding programmes to help safeguard their species in the wild.

The zoo's assistant manager, Jayne Gibbins, said: "It's amazing how many people have asked about how they can become a keeper. It might look like it's about stroking animals but really it's about picking up poo and cleaning windows. But it's a job I love."

For more information call 015395 63027.