As a severe heatwave grips Brazil, a zoo in Rio de Janeiro has deployed a deliciously cool strategy to protect its residents, serving up custom-made popsicles to jaguars, monkeys, and other animals.
Iced Diet Tailored for Each Species
In response to extreme temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), staff at the city's BioParque zoo have introduced an "iced diet." This innovative cooling method is carefully designed to meet the specific dietary and enrichment needs of each species. The treats range from simple frozen fruit for primates to more complex mixtures, such as popsicles containing frozen blood for carnivores.
On Sunday and Monday, the intense heat prompted Rio authorities to issue a serious Level 3 alert, warning of significant health risks from prolonged exposure. Despite the sweltering conditions, visitors continued to flock to the zoo, where they witnessed the unusual sight of animals enjoying their frosty snacks.
Hydration Through Enrichment
Biologist Letizia Feitoza explained the dual benefit of the initiative. She described how a jaguar attempted to retrieve ground chicken popsicles from a tray floating in its water tank. "When she tries to fish out the frozen food, she ends up ingesting water as well," Feitoza noted, highlighting that this process is a crucial aid for the animal's hydration during the extreme weather.
Meanwhile, a troop of monkeys was seen eagerly licking on bright red watermelon ice lollies. Zoo officials confirmed that providing such frozen foods is part of their standard animal care protocol, aimed at ensuring thermal comfort when mercury levels rise dangerously high.
This is not the first summer the zoo has implemented such measures; similar efforts were made last year as high temperatures repeatedly affected southeastern Brazil. The practice demonstrates a proactive approach to animal welfare in the face of increasingly common heat events.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Care
The sight of the animals contentedly working on their icy treats provided both relief and entertainment for visitors. Lorena Carvalho, a teacher visiting the zoo, shared her approval: "I thought it was really cool. I think it brings them more comfort."
The zoo's approach underscores a growing awareness of the need to adapt animal husbandry practices to changing climatic conditions, ensuring resident wildlife remains healthy, hydrated, and stimulated even during the most scorching summer days.
