Zoo Saving Animals From Heat Using Frozen Treats

A bloodsicle for a lion.Photo byWikimedia Commons

WEST PALM BEACH—This month, South Florida has seen temperatures soar into the upper 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius), with humidity levels reaching 70%. The result is a “feels like” temperature that often exceeds 100 F (38 C).

The staff at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society have developed a range of techniques to help their animals beat the heat. In the black bear enclosure, zookeepers dump large piles of ice, giving the bears a chance to cool off in a pool chilled to 74 F (23 C). Otters enjoy ice blocks and frozen fish, which double as toys and treats.

Tigers receive more inventive treats: frozen cow bones encased in blocks of ice, accompanied by frozen goat milk. These big cats also take to the water, enjoying a swim to stay cool.

Giant tortoises, native to the Indian Ocean islands, enjoy cool showers from a hose, which they feel through their shells.

“Even though all of our animals are acclimatized to the South Florida weather, they look for ways to cool off during the hot days, just like we do,” said Mike Terrell, the zoo's curator of animal experiences. “All of our animals here at the zoo were specifically chosen because they’re used to warm climates. They’re totally happy in a high heat, high humidity environment.”

Visitors to the zoo enjoy watching the animals beat the heat. Children often press their faces against the glass for a closer look, leaving behind smudges that Terrell finds endearing.

“We absolutely love nose prints,” Terrell said.

Determining what cooling activities the animals prefer involves some trial and error, Terrell explained.

“They really tell us what they like," Terrell said. "We can take our best guess, but if we’re giving them something they don’t like or they’re not interacting with, we’re not going to continue to give it to them.”

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