Christmas comes early for London Zoo animals as they're treated to piles of presents

Christmas has come early for some of our furry friends.

Animals at London Zoo have been spoilt rotten with gifts and Christmas stockings full of festive treats.

The penguins found fishy gifts under their own tree while Lucifer the lion wasted no time getting stuck into his Christmas box.

Zookeeper Paul Kybett said: “I’m sure the animals will absolutely love their Christmas gifts – they’ve all been very good this year so they deserve lots of treats!"

Lion cubs Heidi and Indi were not left out and were given a box of meat neatly packaged in festive wrapping paper.

And squirrel monkeys couldn't wait to rip into their Christmas stocking, which had been left in a tree.

The Zoo's western lowland gorillas were also on the 'nice' list. The gorilla keepers have stuffed stockings with their favourite snacks.

Mr Kybett added: “Giving the animals gifts like stuffed stockings and presents are a great way of keeping them stimulated and encouraging them to be inquisitive.”