VIDEO: Animals get Christmas treat as zookeepers play Santa

The curious chimpanzees were given a pile of colourfully wrapped presents to open, each stuffed with their favourite snacks such as fruit and nuts, adding a seasonal twist to their enrichment activities at the nearby zoo, which is the largest in the UK.

The sea lions also got into the holiday spirit with some festive, fishy gifts. Six-month-old sea lion pup Oscar is not yet weaned off milk, and keepers hoped the Christmas-themed ice treats would help introduce him to fish for the first time.

Zookeeper Stephen Perry said: “Animals like chimpanzees and sea lions are really inquisitive by nature and enjoy investigating new things.

“The chimps and sea lions have definitely made it onto Santa’s nice list this year, and I’m sure they’ll love their Christmas treats.”

From this Saturday through to Christmas Eve, visitors can prepare their own gifts for the chimpanzees at an interactive Elves’ Workshop as well as learn all about the zoo’s herd of reindeer at a special Christmas talk.

Whipsnade is open to visitors all year round except Christmas Day.