Explorers of all ages are being targeted by Bristol Zoo with a new interactive attraction.

Explorers' Creek will boast a wet play area designed to appeal to youngsters, while older children and adults will be able to feed exotic parrots.

The interactive exhibit will cost just over £250,000 and is scheduled to open in spring.

The new attraction features three areas.

The first element, called Splash! is the water-play area, with streams, dams and the chance for youngsters to get their toes wet.

Next, visitors will be able to follow in the footsteps of jungle explorers through the Forest of Birds, walking among exotic plants and free-flying birds from Asia, Africa and South America, including bleeding heart doves and Victoria crowned pigeons.

Visitors can also choose to brave the wobbly bridge or tackle stepping stones over the creek.

Finally, there will be an opportunity to hand-feed a flock of 30 rainbow lorikeets in the free-flight aviary.

Dave Harley, head of estates at Bristol Zoo Gardens, said: "Explorers' Creek will be great for all ages as toddlers and young children will love Splash! and older children and adults will be amazed at the opportunity to get up close to beautiful lorikeets.

"Explorer's Creek follows on from the success of last year's new interactive experience, Butterfly Forest."

Nigel Simpson, curator of birds, said: "Lorikeets are naturally inquisitive and gregarious little birds and will happily fly down to perch on you and drink the nectar from your hands. It's an absolutely unforgettable experience."

Rainbow lorikeets are small, arboreal parrots with very brightly coloured plumage.

They are found in south and east Indonesia, New Guinea, North East and Eastern Australia.