Animals at Rome's Bioparco Zoo were treated to frozen fruit, vegetables, fish, and specially prepared ice snacks as Italy continued to battle an intense heatwave.
The cooling treats were provided to a variety of animals, including giraffes, hippos, tapirs, capybaras, lemurs, and seals. Zoo staff said the frozen meals not only helped lower the animals' body temperatures but also encouraged natural feeding and play behaviors.
To protect the animals from the extreme weather, the zoo also maintained cooled swimming pools and climate-controlled indoor shelters for species that are especially vulnerable to high temperatures. Seals, for example, are kept in pools with water temperatures below 25°C to prevent overheating.
The Italian Ministry of Health has issued its highest heat warning as temperatures in Rome are expected to reach between 36°C and 37°C. The prolonged heatwave has affected much of the country, prompting authorities and wildlife experts to take additional precautions.
According to Bioparco Zoo's zoological supervisor, Yitzhak Yadid, certain amphibious and heat-sensitive species depend on air-conditioned shelters or water-cooling systems to safely cope with the extreme conditions.
Zoo officials said the cooling measures also serve as environmental enrichment, helping keep the animals active, comfortable, and healthy while reducing the stress caused by prolonged summer heat.
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