Ipswich Museum was transformed into a marvellous menagerie of creatures on today, as the animal invasion event returned for half term.

Ipswich Star: Real animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWNReal animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWN

The three-day event which began today featured four workshops where adults and children alike could find out more about fascinating animals including rats, chinchillas and even an aptly-named parrot called Valentine.

Ipswich Star: Real animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWNReal animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWN

More than 800 people gathered for today’s opening – and museum bosses have said that more animal invasions can be expected throughout the year.

Ipswich Star: Real animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWNReal animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWN

“It’s been great to welcome so many people in and we ensure the programme of events is informed by the responses and feedback from the visitors,” said manager James Steward.

Ipswich Star: Real animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWNReal animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWN

The lively creatures will be on hand for workshops at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Wednesday and Thursday, with online booking required.

Ipswich Star: Real animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWNReal animals at Ipswich Museum. Children get up close to fluffy, scaly or creepy crawly creatures in this family-friendly show. Pictured is Niamh Sparrow. Picture: GREGG BROWN

For more information and to book see here.