The Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society in Florida employs various techniques to keep its animals cool during the sweltering summer months. With temperatures often reaching 30 degrees Celsius and humidity levels hovering around 70%, the zookeepers have developed innovative strategies to provide relief for the zoo’s residents.
Black bears at the zoo enjoy rolling around in large piles of ice placed in their enclosures. This not only creates a fun environment for them but also cools their swimming pools down to about 23 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, otters receive frozen blocks of ice along with fish, serving as both toys and food.
The Malayan tigers experience an even more elaborate treat. They get frozen beef bones and goat’s milk encased in ice, providing both hydration and nourishment. These majestic cats also enjoy splashing around in their pools, as they, like many animals, seek ways to beat the heat.
Giant Aldabra tortoises, which are native to the Indian Ocean islands, especially appreciate cool showers from a hose. This refreshing method helps to keep their shells cool during the hottest months. According to zookeeper Mike Terrell, while all the animals are accustomed to Florida’s climate, he and his team are always looking for new ways to keep them cool.
Zoo visitors have a chance to learn and be entertained as they observe the animals enjoying their cooling activities. Children particularly enjoy pressing their faces against the glass to get a closer look, creating delightful interactions. Terrell mentions that seeing the kids’ nose prints on the glass is a testament to the fascination these creatures evoke.
Discovering what refreshing activities each animal prefers requires a bit of trial and error. Animals communicate their likes and dislikes effectively; if they disregard a particular enrichment item, zookeepers learn to adjust accordingly. This natural feedback helps the caregivers continuously enhance the animals’ well-being.
In Florida, where temperatures can feel like they exceed 38 degrees Celsius due to high humidity, the zoo staff must be both creative and meticulous in their efforts. From simple techniques like distributing ice to more complex methods such as crafting frozen treats, every approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of different species.
This ongoing commitment is essential for ensuring the animals thrive in a climate that, while familiar to some, may be extreme due to its combination of heat and humidity. Terrell and his team continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring that each animal not only survives but thrives during the intense summer months.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/estados-unidos/2024/07/24/un-zoologico-aplico-tecnicas-innovadoras-para-mantener-frescos-a-sus-animales-durante-la-ola-de-calor-en-estados-unidos/
