A BRAND-new mural has been unveiled to celebrate 50 years of West Midland Safari Park.

A giant portrait of a lion has been created by artist Nathan Wyburn, which is made up of hundreds of photographs of animals – including giraffes, tigers and elephants.

It comes as a study of 2,000 adults found 45 per cent are clueless about which animals are on the brink of extinction.

Vikki Green, Head of Marketing at West Midland Safari Park, which commissioned the research, said: “This striking image of the regal lion, combined with the report findings, really shows how important our wildlife is to the planet.

“With our Park celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, it’s vital to raise awareness of endangered species around the world and encourage people to support the cause. The Park has been home to hundreds of animals, including several critically endangered species.

“The fact there are over 40,000 species currently under threat is shocking and we must do what we can to protect our precious wildlife before it’s too late.”

“Since opening 50 years ago, our Park has seen over 30 million visitors, we’ve supported numerous successful conservation programmes and we’ve been lucky to be able to contribute to breeding programmes such as the EAZA Ex-situ Programme (EEP).

"Animals born in our care help conserve healthy populations of wildlife while safeguarding their genetic health".