Zoo animals cool off with ice slabs, hydrating food & electrolyte-rich drinks

Kolkata: From installing water sprinklers and cooling systems to redesigning diets with hydrating food, authorities at Alipore zoo have stepped up a range of heat-management measures to ensure animals remain safe and comfortable.To combat the heat, the zoo has introduced continuous cooling arrangements across several enclosures. Fine mist sprinklers have been installed to spray water droplets at regular intervals, helping lower temperatures and create a more comfortable environment for the animals. Large fans and air coolers have also been placed in selected enclosures along with ice slabs, particularly for species such as bears and kangaroos that are more vulnerable to heat stress."Sprinklers are operating throughout the day to maintain cooler conditions inside the enclosures. In some habitats, additional cooling systems have been set up, while large animals like elephants are being given frequent showers," a senior zoo official said.Authorities have intensified efforts to shield animals from direct exposure to the sun. Cane shades, paddy straw coverings, tarpaulins and agro nets are being used across several enclosures, particularly those housing birds. Species such as cassowaries, macaws and lovebirds are being provided with additional protection from direct sunlight.The zoo has also revised food plans to include fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, papaya, grapes, ripe jackfruit and mangoes. Sour curd has also been added to diets to aid hydration and help animals cope with rising temperatures.Officials said electrolyte-rich drinks and glucose supplements are being provided to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. Carnivores, including lions and tigers, have also seen adjustments to their diet. Meat portions have been reduced, while chicken is being used as a substitute due to limited availability of beef.Veterinary teams have been placed on high alert and are carrying out regular health assessments to monitor animals for signs of heat stress. Symptoms such as excessive panting, loss of appetite and lethargy are being closely tracked. "Animals showing signs of severe discomfort are receiving immediate medical care, including intravenous hydration when required," another official said.Additional shaded areas have been created using bamboo screens and thatched roofing over open spaces within enclosures. Sensitive species such as big cats and primates are also receiving extra care, with enclosures being regularly sprayed with water to reduce ambient temperatures. Ice slabs have also been provided to multiple enclosures.Zoo authorities have also ensured an uninterrupted supply of fresh drinking water. Large water troughs are being refilled frequently to prevent water from heating under direct sunlight, while pools and artificial ponds are being cleaned and replenished daily to encourage animals to cool off."In the wild, animals adapt to high temperatures by limiting activity during the hottest parts of the day or seeking cooler habitats. In captivity, however, they depend on us for that support. We are taking every possible step to keep the animals safe and comfortable," an official said.