Sprinklers, new diet to keep zoo animals cool in Kolkata

KOLKATA: From installing water sprinklers inside the animal enclosures to periodic water showers, introducing a liquid diet to placing air coolers and fans outside cages — Alipore zoo authorities have taken a slew of “summer care” steps to keep animals comfortable in this prevailing heatwave-like condition in the city.
The authorities have placed sprinklers and water pipelines through all small and big cages where water is sprayed multiple times a day for animals to drench themselves. In case of open enclosures, water pipelines with hose taps have been fitted where animals can sit under the water to cool off. While the birds enjoy it the most, even large mammals, like elephants and Indian bisons, wait for their showers. Regular showers help keep their temperatures down. The reptiles have been given fans in their enclosures.
“We are experiencing an extreme heatwave-like situation that has made us take some steps. Apart from periodic bathing of animals, we are also filling up the water bodies inside the big enclosures to allow the animals to swim,” said a senior zoo official.
Changes have also been brought in the animals’ diets.
While big cats are under watch of vets and the amount of meat in their diet is being cut down or adjusted, chimpanzees are being given lassi and bael, and birds are being fed a number of summer fruits which have high water content. The Indian black bears are furry heat-sensitive animals, so they are being given a special mix of curd, rice and honey.
“ORS has been added to the diet of almost all animals and is being mixed with their food,” said the official.
Dorma shades have been put across a number of bird enclosures, like that of cassowary, macaw and lovebirds. “Since kangaroos like a cooler environment, air coolers have been fitted inside their enclosure,” the official said.
In the natural habitat, animals and birds have their own ways to tackle the heat. While animals restrict their movement to the early mornings or late evenings, some birds migrate to colder regions. “In confinement, animals rely on zookeepers to help them beat the heat. We are trying every possible way to make them comfortable,” said the official.