Camouflage, Claws and Courage!

Get up close with incredible creatures and discover how their survival skills help them thrive in extreme environments. From camouflage to teamwork, explore how these abilities connect to real-life Royal Navy and Royal Marine challenges.

Get ready for a wild and wonderful adventure this summer at the Dockyard, where you will come face to face with some of nature’s most fascinating survivors!

Step into an exciting, interactive experience with Zoolab and meet a range of exotic animals, including snakes, tarantulas and giant snails. Discover how each one has evolved remarkable survival skills to thrive in some of the harshest environments on Earth.

Each creature has its own amazing story to tell. Watch a tarantula demonstrate incredible precision and patience as it catches its prey, showing the focus needed in high-pressure situations. Learn how the giant snail carries its shelter wherever it goes, just like Royal Marine crews rely on their ships for protection at sea, and discover how cockroaches communicate and work together, just like naval teams on mission.

From clever camouflage techniques used by stick insects to the powerful, fluid movement of snakes navigating challenging terrain, this immersive experience brings survival skills to life in a fun and unforgettable way. With the chance to handle real animals and hear fascinating facts, families will discover how adaptability, teamwork and resilience are essential for survival, both in the wild and at sea.

Taking place on 21, 22, 26 and 27 August in the Victory Gallery, this drop-in experience runs from 10.30am to 12.45pm, with live shows at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Included with a valid museum ticket and suitable for ages 3 and over.

This summer event series celebrates the story and spirit of the Royal Marines in anticipation of the opening of our new Royal Marines Experience later this year. This event is made possible with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

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