In pictures: The amazing Bricklive Grand Safari at the Grand Arcade in Cambridge

Intrepid explorers have been getting up close to a collection of giant animals at the Bricklive Grand Safari at the Grand Arcade.

The life-sized sculptures in this safari take visitors on a global quest through four habitats: wildlands, snow and ice, ocean and jungle.

Running until 27 August, the exhibition features 15 endangered creatures handcrafted entirely from tiny bricks.

Visitors can follow the Bricklive Grand Safari trail map around the Grand Arcade to encounter the statues of endangered animals from across the world and then pop into the Museum of Zoology to see the real thing.

Dr Roz Wade, from the University of Cambridge museum, said: “We are delighted to join the Grand Arcade on this amazing safari adventure. It’s so important that we increase our understanding of these wonderful animals and of the conservation issues that surround the natural world.”

Come face-to-face with a Bengal tiger, an African lion, an orangutan and an emperor penguin. Watch out for the giant panda munching a bamboo shoot, tiptoe quietly to catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard, witness the graceful dolphin mid-leap and look to Grand Arcade’s sky-lit roof to marvel at the vibrant macaws perched in a tree. Each model is huge – the Bengal tiger is made from 81,350 bricks and took 392 hours to build.

There is also a selection of interactive photo opportunities where visitors can be transformed into an intrepid safari ranger by posing in the ‘selfie zone’ or taking the wheel of the 4x4 in the interactive jeep created from 71,454 bricks.

Julie Kervadec, Grand Arcade marketing manager, said: “It is important for us to create an immersive experience for our visitors, while raising awareness about endangered species.

“It is amazing to be able to partner with a renowned museum of Cambridge University whose valuable scientific content adds a fascinating educative element to the entertaining sculptures we will have on display.”