London Zoo has introduced a novel way to help its big cats beat the heat during the current heatwave: frozen blood lollies. The treats, made from blended blood and water, are proving popular among the zoo's lions, tigers, and leopards.
Cooling Treats for Felines
As temperatures in the capital reached 30°C, keepers at London Zoo came up with the idea of creating ice lollies filled with blood to provide a refreshing snack for the big cats. The lollies are made by freezing a mixture of animal blood and water in large containers, then presenting them to the animals as a cool treat.
Zookeepers reported that the cats showed great enthusiasm for the frozen snacks, licking and playing with them to get to the blood inside. The treats not only help cool the animals down but also provide enrichment, encouraging natural behaviours.
Other Cooling Methods
In addition to the blood lollies, the zoo has implemented other measures to ensure the animals remain comfortable during the hot weather. These include providing shaded areas, misting sprays, and pools of water for the cats to cool off in. Keepers are also monitoring the animals closely for any signs of heat stress.
The zoo's carnivore team explained that big cats can be particularly susceptible to overheating due to their thick fur and lack of sweat glands. The frozen treats offer a tasty and effective way to help them regulate their body temperature.
Visitors to the zoo have been fascinated by the sight of the big cats enjoying their icy snacks, with many taking photos and videos. The zoo hopes that the initiative will also raise awareness about animal welfare and the challenges faced by wildlife during extreme weather events.
As heatwaves become more frequent due to climate change, zoos across the country are adapting their care routines to ensure the wellbeing of their animals. London Zoo's blood lollies are just one example of the creative approaches being used to keep animals cool and healthy.
