A Cumbrian zoo keeper has returned from an adventurous expedition to Guatemala.

Kasper Hansen, a 26-year-old reptile enthusiast originally from Denmark, took a break from his day-to-day duties at the Lake District Wildlife Park to co-lead a research trip to the depths of the South American rainforest.

And now that he's back from his adventure, Kasper is eager to share his experience with people visiting the popular attraction.

Kasper said: “In terms of the species I saw, the research station was often visited by spider-monkeys, aracari, toucans and even the odd ocelot.

“It was a great place to look for reptiles as many of the sun-loving species used the clearing to come out and bask during the day.

“Our research looked at the effect of agriculture on wildlife.

“Where there was once forest there is now agriculture, and the effect on wildlife and culture are important.”

One of the most dramatic sightings was of a boa constrictor, a deadly snake.

He said: “Seeing them in their natural environment is a real thrill and it gave me lots of anecdotes and information that I am now using in my reptile talks back at the park.”

Just getting to the Las Guacamayas biology base, buried in the heart of the vast Del Tigre national park, was a struggle.

The average flight time from the UK to Guatemala is almost 14 hours – and that was followed up by a turbulent three hour car journey and an hour-and-a half boat ride up the San Pedro River.

Kasper said: “The station itself feels like it has been taken straight out of the Jungle Book fairy tale with lush tropical forests.

“Nearby was Tikal with its ancient ruins and pyramids from the Mayan civilisation, famed for their architectural prowess.”

Kasper has extensive experience working with animals and has been involved with zoos across Europe.

He has visited Guatemala twice before as a research volunteer on trips organised by Indigo Expeditions.

He has been re-acquainting himself with the animals under his care since he returned to the wildlife park – especially a 17-year-old Macaw called Jelly that he has a particular fondness for.

Kasper said: "Of the animals under my care at the park, the first one I went to see when I got back was Jelly."