As Rio de Janeiro grapples with an intense summer heatwave, the city’s BioParque zoo has implemented innovative cooling measures for its animal residents. Zoo keepers distributed specially formulated frozen treats to various species on Tuesday, tailoring the iced delicacies to each animal’s dietary requirements and preferences.
Primates received refreshing watermelon popsicles, while jaguars were presented with frozen ground chicken treats floating in their water tanks. The zoo’s biological team designed these frozen offerings not merely as temporary refreshments but as strategic hydration tools. According to zoo biologist Letizia Feitoza, the floating chicken popsicles serve a dual purpose: “When she attempts to retrieve the frozen food, she inevitably consumes water simultaneously, significantly aiding her hydration levels.”
This initiative represents part of the zoo’s comprehensive animal welfare protocol during extreme weather conditions. Similar measures were activated during previous summer seasons when southeastern Brazil experienced comparable temperature spikes. Despite temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) over the weekend—prompting city officials to issue a Level 3 heat alert—visitors continued to flock to the zoo, expressing appreciation for the innovative animal care approaches.
Lorena Carvalho, an educator visiting the facility, observed: “The implementation of these cooling methods appears significantly beneficial. It undoubtedly enhances their comfort during such challenging weather conditions.” The zoo maintains that these thermal comfort strategies are integrated within standard animal care practices, ensuring species-specific needs are met during climate extremes.