Animals cool off at Zoo

Many of the animals are well adapted to the heat and are making the most of the weather. The ring-tailed lemurs and California sea lions have spent the last few days sun-bathing and soaking up the rays. However, with the soaring temperatures, keepers are making sure that the animals also stay nice and cool.

Keepers have been busy giving the Asian elephants regular showers and applying factor 50 sun cream to the animals with skin that is prone to burning, such as the pigs.

The chimpanzees, gorillas, maned wolves, white-nosed coati and Malayan sun bears have also been enjoying some special ice lollies, created by the keepers to suit each animal’s diet, for example the chimpanzees’ lollies are filled with their favourite fruits.

“The ice lollies are not only tasty treats which help to keep the animals cool, refreshed and hydrated, they also act as a form of enrichment. The apes are especially interesting to watch as they use their hands, feet and tools such as branches to break the ice to get to the fruit.” said zoo manager, Mark Challis, “Visitors can make the most of the good weather and enjoy our daily schedule of animal feeding times during their visit!” Keep up to date with zoo news at www.belfastzoo.co.uk, www.facebook.com/belfastzoo or www.twitter.com/belfastzoo.