Zoology Society

The Zoology Society is aimed at anyone with a passion for animals and conservation, a place where budding zoologists can come together and participate in a vast range of activities. These range from light hearted socials to slightly more serious academic talks. I spoke to the social secretary Lauren James who told me about their latest social to the Blue Planet Aquarium in Chester. Famous for having the largest collection of sharks, the zoology society organised the trip for 22 members of the society.

“The aquarium was fantastic, with vibrant, colourful displays of exotic fish and other marine creatures, but they also had an interesting collection of amphibians and reptiles. The main attraction was of course the shark tank.  With a huge range of shark species including the stunning leopard shark and (my personal favourite) “Dotty” the zebra shark. Demonstrations took place throughout the day, involving divers in the main tank showing us how they looked after the sharks and hand-fed the stingrays. There was also a tunnel through the main shark tank, giving a 360° view of these majestic creatures, a definite highlight of the day. Overall it was a great day, with everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves, so in my view totally worth the three months it took to organise and we will definitely see if we can run it again next year.” This was their main trip of the year, however they have organised many other events  ranging from themed nights out to academic talks running the duration of last semester. Although the society is naturally very popular with zoology students, the society is open to everyone with an interest in zoology.

“I became part of the society as I was invited to the Zoology Society Facebook group when I joined the University last year and went along to their “post exams party.” I met so many fantastic people in one night and as soon as I received an email with the opportunity to be part of the committee for this academic year, I jumped at the chance to have a more active role in the society. These socials are a relaxed and fun way to get to meet people in the society, when you go once you will find yourself coming back time after time. I recommend anyone wanting to join the society to come along and get involved.”

If you want to find out more about what the zoology society simply visit the Manchester University Student Union website. There is a £2 membership fee which goes towards trips we organise. Visit their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/220988784625859/