BELFAST Zoo has been awarded for its dedication to red squirrel conservation.
It was honoured by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
When the zoo's red squirrel nook was established in 2012, the aim was to educate visitors about the native animal and risks threatening the species.
It was also hoped the animals in the nook would eventually breed and help with repopulation.
Belfast Zoo-born red squirrels have since been released at four different sites around the north.
There has been breeding success inside the zoo this year also, with five red squirrel kittens being born. They will go on to populate suitable areas in the wild in future.
The zoo is also in discussion with Queen's University Belfast to coordinate research to better understand these endangered mammals and potentially aid in further conservation developments.
"The recognition for our red squirrel conservation programme is excellent news," said zoo manager Alyn Cairns.
"We are extremely thankful for having such a dedicated and driven animal care team and this award and recognition wouldn't have been possible without their tireless work."
