Delhi Zoo's Innovative Cooling for Wildlife

New Delhi's National Zoological Park is actively combating the severe summer heat with a multi-faceted approach to safeguard its wildlife. The zoo has implemented a crucial two-shift rotation system for animals such as tigers, lions, and bears, operating from 7 am to 1 pm and then continuing to reduce prolonged exposure to high temperatures. This ensures each animal benefits from adequate cooling and shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Expanded cooling infrastructure is now in place, featuring enhanced facilities like pools, sprinklers, and shaded shelters throughout the park. For large carnivores and other species, water pools are regularly cleaned and refilled, with shade structures to prevent overheating. Green mats and bamboo shelters offer additional respite from direct sunlight. Herbivores like deer and elephants also have sprinklers installed in their enclosures, while special wallowing tanks and running water systems are maintained for species like sambar and swamp deer.

To further aid the animals, staff provide daily water showers for elephants and rhinos. Bird enclosures are protected with side-wall curtains and continuous water sprinkling, supplemented by wet gunny bags in some aviaries. Primates are receiving fruit ice balls as a refreshing treat, and bears are benefiting from water coolers and large ice blocks in their housing. The zoo's dedicated animal care staff remain vigilant, monitoring for any unusual behavior and promptly alerting veterinary teams.