Ice slabs, fountains, coolers for animals at Chhatbir zoo

Zirakpur, April 15

The Chhatbir zoo authorities have made adequate arrangements for animals and birds to stay cool in the peak summer season. Ice slabs, fountains, water enclosures, coolers, wet jute mats and fans have been installed in the enclosures where birds and animal can find relief from the outside heat. For the past few days, the mercury has been hovering around the 40°C mark in the region, which has made life difficult for flora and fauna.

The zoo authorities have also made changes in the diet plan of the animals. Watermelons are being fed to monkeys, bears and elephants to keep them hydrated.

Himalayan bears are being given special treatment in summer with ice slabs to play and stay cool. The ideal temperature for bears is 2°C to 18°C. “Bael, cucumber and beet root have also been added to their diet plan,” said a zookeeper. Glucose is being given with water to keep them nutrient nourished.

Tiger and leopard enclosures have been fitted with sprinklers, while a pond-like structure has been made available to elephants, which are known to be fond of water bodies.

The animal management cell has provided an agro-net cover to some of the enclosures to keep the animals under shade most of the time as it effectively reduces the temperature inside as compared to the sunny area.

Officials said special attention was being paid to maintain the water requirements of the zoo as the consumption went up considerably in the summer season.