DURRELL’S energy-efficient enclosure which houses 60 of the world’s rarest bats has won one of the top awards in the zoo world.

The Island Bat Roost, which was made from more than 800 recycled car tyres packed with mud, straw bales and empty wine bottles, has been awarded the 2012 title for best new enclosure by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).

The award, in which Durrell was commended for its pioneering work, was presented this week at a ceremony held at West Midland Safari Park.

It was accepted on Durrell’s behalf by Bristol Zoo director Dr Bryan Carroll, who was formerly Durrell’s curator of mammals.