Tierpark Herford

At the hoofed-animal area, compare the alpacas’ short, straight ears with the llamas’ longer, curved ones. Let children describe the difference before checking the enclosure signs.

Look for ear tufts, long legs and a short, black-tipped tail. Pause at the viewing area and scan slowly; a resting lynx can be easy to overlook.

The thick, blunt-ended tail with dark rings is a useful feature to notice. Give a resting cat space and return later if it stays hidden.

Watch both the ground and climbing structures. The black-and-white tail is conspicuous; in sunshine, you may see a lemur sitting with its arms spread.

Watch for different jobs within the group: digging, moving between companions or standing upright to look around. A still observer has plenty to notice.

The white crest is the quickest clue. Follow one animal through the branches and watch how its hands and feet help it climb.

Look at the pattern as well as the white colour: dark barring varies between birds. Let the owl choose whether to face you.

Compare the heart-shaped facial disc with the rounder faces of other owls. It helps channel sound towards the ears.

Look along the branches for the long tail, crest along the back and loose skin beneath the throat. Adults may look olive or orange rather than bright green.

Search the leafy branches for a slender green line. Its camouflage makes this an enjoyable patient-looking challenge; leave the glass untouched.

Notice the contrast between the blue back and yellow underside. If it climbs, watch how the curved bill helps it grip.

All listed snap targets are captive zoo animals. Availability varies. Keep private photographs for yourselves unless you have the park’s written permission to publish them.

Look for the red-brown head and legs of the Coburger Fuchsschaf, then the dark head and greyer fleece of the Rauhwolliges Pommersches Landschaf. The farm-animal area gives familiar sheep a second look.

Both playgrounds sit near the entrance side of the park on the official plan, handy for a final stop after the animal round.