With just over three weeks to go until Christmas, the denizens of London Zoo are starting to get into the festive spirit. The resident meerkats have already sent ‘Christmas wish lists’ to Santa Claus through mini post-boxes filled with crickets. The zoo is preparing to re-open on Wednesday <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/europe/covid-19-british-government-votes-for-toughened-three-tier-restrictions-1.1121301">following the one-month coronavirus lockdown imposed on Britain from November 5.</a> “All the meerkats want for Christmas is for people to visit the zoo this December – because booking a ticket will support the expert care of our 20,000 animals during this difficult time, and ZSL’s global science and conservation work," zookeeper Luke Taylor said. “Being closed for a combined total of 15 weeks so far this year means we’ve lost out on millions of pounds raised by vital ticket sales, which funds our work: by celebrating Christmas at London Zoo people can enjoy a safe and fun day out while supporting ZSL’s work.” Meanwhile, Gentoo penguins at London’s Sea Life Aquarium watched their favourite Christmas movies ahead of the centre re-opening its doors to the public after lockdown. At Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, Christmas decorations went up early, with wolverines able to play with piñata candy sticks with food inside.