Blessed with an extensive coastline and diverse countryside, the Isle of Man is a fantastic place to spot a wide range of animals in the wild - but if you want a guaranteed sighting look no further.
For the Isle of Man has a number of spots where you can get up close and personal to a variety of species.
Curraghs Wildlife Park is a haven for wetland wildlife and home to around 100 different types of animal – many of which are endangered in the wild. Most of the enclosures allow you to walk through giving you the chance to watch creatures - including monkeys, red pandas, penguins and meerkats - from just a short distance away.
You’ll also have the opportunity to find out what happens to the tram horses when they retire by paying a visit to the Home of Rest for Old Horses. Set in 92 acres of glorious Manx countryside, this caring animal sanctuary offers the horses a happy and fulfilling place to end their final years.
If you’re planning on visiting during the spring, come and see 200+ goats at Kiddin’ Chaos. Taking place on a working farm in the north of the Island, you can meet lots of Boer and Angora goats and their kids as well as help to collect the hens’ eggs and even buy a carton to take home.
Or why not try seal spotting? The Island has a large seal population, of both grey and common, which inhabit Manx waters year round. The east and south coasts of the Isle of Man are some of the best places to spot seals during your visit. Make sure you go to the Sound at the Island’s most southerly tip as the seals often surround the small rocky inlet known as Kitterland either sunbathing or swimming.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot a wild wallaby or special Manx cat during your visit!
