MARTIN MERE WILDFOWL AND WETLAND, Burscough. Phone 01704 895181.

ANIMAL WORLD, Moss Bank Park, Moss Bank Way, Bolton. Enter the fascinating world of nature touring the enclosures suited to each individual animal's own natural habitat from farmyard animals to chipmunks and wildfowl to tropical birds and experience the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest and view some of the world's most beautiful butterflies and moths in free flight amongst waterfalls and streams. Phone 846157.

HILLSIDE BIRD OASIS, Damson Lane, Mobberley, Cheshire. An amazing collection of birds including penguins, pelicans, flamingoes, pheasant, ibis and wildfowl. Open daily (except Thursday) to October 31, 11.30am to 5.30pm.

KNOWSLEY SAFARI PARK, Prescott, Merseyside. A chance to see some of the world's most dangerous animals including white rhino, African elephants, zebras, giraffes, meerkats, monkeys, lions and otters in spacious and natural surroundings. A rollercoaster and pirate ship also add to the attractions. Open seven days from 10am to 3.30pm. Admission prices £7 for adults and £5 for children. Phone 0151 4309009.

BLACKPOOL SEA LIFE CENTRE, The Promenade, Blackpool. One of Europe's largest marine collection featuring a tropical shark display. The underwater tunnel offers visitors the chance to view sharks, stonefish, moray eels, lionfish and devil scorpions. Open seven days from 10am to 4pm. Admission £5.99 for adults and £4.99 for children with family tickets priced at £16.75. Phone 01253 622445.

BLUE PLANET, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. This new attraction offers visitors the chance to view piranhas, the country's biggest collection of golden dart frogs, sharks, whales and dolphins by walking through an underground tunnel. Free animal handling sessions, face painting and behind-the scenes tours are also part of a fun day out suitable for all the family. For further details of opening times and admission prices. Phone 0906 941 0088.

CHESTER ZOO, Caughill Road, Upton, Cheshire. Attractions include the unique Islands in Danger for endangered island species such as Komodo Dragons and Birds of Paradise. Also visit the Wildlife Discovery Centre and the New Gardens, the Twilight Zone Bat Cave and Monkey Islands as well as the usual favourites the chimpanzees, tigers, lions and the Aquarium. Open seven days from 10am. Admission £9 for adults, £7 for children, £7.50 for OAPs. Family tickets £34.00. Phone 01244 380280.