Jambu Zoo steps up summer care measures as heatwave intensifies

JAMMU: As temperatures continue to soar across Jammu region, the Jambu Zoo Authority has intensified summer protection measures for animals by installing cooling systems, increasing water-based facilities and modifying food patterns to prevent heat-related stress among wildlife.
Speaking to The News Now about the arrangements, Jambu Zoo Additional Director Amrik Singh said special attention is being given to animals that are highly sensitive to rising temperatures, particularly species belonging to colder climatic zones such as brown bears and Himalayan black bears.
“With the increase in temperature, changes are also made in the animals’ living conditions and food habits. We have installed roof coverings and placed jute bags over enclosures, which are continuously sprinkled with water to reduce heat,” Singh said.
He said water sprinkler systems and misting points have been installed in almost every enclosure to help animals remain cool during peak daytime temperatures. Fresh drinking water is also being supplied regularly across the zoo premises.
According to zoo authorities, animals are being provided electrolyte supplements and glucose mixed in drinking water to help them cope with dehydration during extreme heat conditions.
The zoo administration has also altered feeding patterns by increasing the quantity of water-rich fruits and food items. Watermelon and other hydrating fruits are being regularly included in the diet of several animals during the summer season.
“For carnivorous animals, we reduce the quantity of meat intake during peak heat periods because they naturally consume less food in hot weather,” Singh said.
Special cooling arrangements have been made for heat-sensitive animals, including the installation of air-conditioners and coolers inside enclosed chambers. Brown bears and other animals from colder habitats are being monitored closely due to their vulnerability to heat stress.
The zoo authority said several enclosures have shaded natural shelters, while indoor cooling chambers allow animals to retreat during extreme weather conditions.
Singh informed that the zoo has a fully functional veterinary hospital with dedicated veterinary doctors and trained staff who conduct daily health check-ups and monitoring of animals.
“Regular medical examinations and routine inspections are being carried out. So far, no case of heat stroke or serious heat-related illness has been reported among any animal in the zoo,” he said.