Killian McLaughlin has a wonderful collection of beautiful animals he has built up over the years which include monkeys, owls, snakes, a kangaroo and many exotic birds.

After completing a degree in zoo resource management the 24-year-old now hopes to create a wildlife park on a piece of land in Derry or Donegal to bring his animals to people on both sides of the border.

But, to see his vision come to life, he needs the help of a generous person who could lease him a section of land.

Killian, who lives in Buncrana, said the current park was home to a wide range of exotic animals, some of which are on display nowhere else is Ireland. He said: “The park is home to capuchin monkeys, vervet monkeys, wallabies, emu, parrots, pythons, and boa constrictors, tarantulas, eagle owls, skunks, raccoons, arctic foxes, pheasants and exotic birds.

“The park has been very popular with schools and local children. Some schools have travelled from Letterkenny and Derry to spend time with the animals. Many of the children declaring it the best school tour ever. The attraction here is that they get to have hands on contact with many of the animals which they really enjoy.”

Killian is one of only four people in Ireland to complete a zoo resource management degree which he did in Winchester, England, and now wants to put his new skills to use.

“I am looking for a larger site to expand the wildlife park and open full time to the public, said Killian, “I am sure that there are developers that have bought land that they are not able to develop and maybe interested in leasing it on long term. Or perhaps there are other people that might have some farm land that they are not using. It will be very beneficial to the local community benefiting tourism and educational needs.”

Killian said children growing up today in cities were deprived of contact with the natural world. He said: “It inspires their imagination and teaches them about the world around them giving them respect for other living things.

“The world is in a very bad state at the moment with deforestation and global warming. The park will also serve as a conservation centre for breeding rare and endangered animals to be released back into the wild when suitable habitat is available. The park will also get involved with charities working in-situ.”

An ideal site for the wildlife park would be ten acres or more with suitable access to Donegal and Derry, such as culmore, muff, bridgend and kilea.

Killian said: “This will be a fantastic asset to the community and the area, it will be a signature attraction for the area and will attract lots of people which will have a knock on effect on other local businesses such as hotels and other attractions.”

If you can help Killian or want to become involved or support in any way, contact him on 00353 868309190.