Predators on the loose in Warrington

SOME of the world’s fiercest predators have been spotted on the prowl in Warrington.
Sharks, crocodiles and birds of prey are among the terrifying creatures now on display at Warrington Museum and Art Gallery as part of a new exhibition called Predators.
This family-friendly free exhibition features specially-selected artefacts, taxidermy and artwork from the museum’s collection and gives visitors a chance to discover fascinating and unusual facts about nature’s top hunters.
Mike Roberts, visitor services officer at the museum, revealed a few of the more unusual details which visitors can expect to uncover.
He said: “There are so many weird and sometimes gruesome facts about the animal world which will fascinate and terrify our visitors in this exhibition.
“For example, not many people know that all polar bears are left handed, or that honey bears are thought of as the bravest animal on the planet because they can drive lions away from a kill.
“I was also horrified to learn that South American army ants travel in tens of thousands and eat every living thing in their path, including other insects, mice, pigs and even cows.”
From the guts and gore of the hunt to the grossness of animal dung, Predators promises to fascinate old and young alike with games, interactive objects and displays on the animal kingdom’s different classes such as mammals, reptiles and birds.
There is even advice on how to survive an animal attack, just in case visitors ever find themselves face to face with a crocodile or leopard!
Roger Jeffery, exhibition and interpretation officer at Culture Warrington, the charity which runs Warrington Museum and Art Gallery, said: “Human beings have always been fascinated by predators – ever since we first stood upright and used tools for the first time about three million years ago.
“Knowing which animals can harm us and learning how they work, from big powerful mammals to poisonous insects, gave our ancestors an evolutionary advantage and has kept us alive.
“Through this engaging and imaginative exhibition, visitors will discover what it is that makes each predator excel – their bodies, senses and behaviour, teamwork and intelligence.  It’s a fascinating display which will entertain the whole family.”
Predators is open to the public now and throughout the summer until September 16.
During the school holidays there will also be free children’s craft activity sessions which take place on Saturdays, and each Tuesday and Thursday.
Visit www.warringtonmuseum.co.uk for more details.