West Midlands Safari Park animals keeping cool
They've been given icy treats to cope with the heat wave
Last updated 19th Jul 2022
All animals, big and small, have had their favourite foods prepared in ice blocks, such as fruit for the lemurs, insects for the meerkats and blood for the lions.
Keepers use a variety of vessels, such as buckets, tubing and silicone trays, to make sure the size of the lollies suit the animals they’re for.
Large animals such as the Indian rhinos get huge ice blocks, whereas the tiny meerkats receive small ice spheres. By presenting food in different ways, the lollies also form a part of the animals’ enrichment.
Head of Wildlife, Angela Potter, said, “Some of our exotic species really enjoy the sunshine, but when the temperatures soar, we do provide them with some extra enrichment to ensure that they feel more comfortable. Frozen, animal appropriate, ice lollies are very popular and many of our species, big and small, enjoy these treats.
“The giraffe and rhinos enjoy frozen vegetables and browse twigs, whilst the lemur and lorikeet lollies are made with pieces of fruit. For the animals that eat meat and insects, we may add things like fish for the penguins, mealworms for the meerkats and even blood for the lions. We also ensure the mud wallows are kept topped up so that species such as the Pére David’s deer and barasingha can cool off when needed.”
She continued, “We do have species that come from colder climates, such as the red pandas, so it is very important to ensure that they do not overheat. We do this by providing an air-conditioned unit within their house and cool mats under the straw in their nest boxes.”
As well as creating ice lollies, keepers have other crafty ways of keeping the animals in their care cool such as creating wet spots of sand for the meerkats, hosing down the ostriches and offering sprinkler sessions for the penguins.
Look out for the vulnerable
Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
Close curtains
Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
Avoid excess alcohol
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
Never leave children or pets in locked car
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Check equipment’s work properly
Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.
Stay in doors at peak sun hours
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
Stay in shade
Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
Take breaks
Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
Always have water
Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
Follow safety advice
Take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down.
Check medicines
Check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging.