Alipore Zoo takes up protective measures to keep animals healthy in heat

Kolkata: The Alipore Zoo authorities have undertaken several measures to protect the animals from the unbearable heat wave across the city.

With predictions of increase in temperatures, the zoo staff have put up water sprinklers inside the enclosures that keep the animals.

Regular baths are provided to the elephants, tigers, chimpanzees, emus, and tortoises to keep their body temperatures normal.

The birds are given a shed to protect them bright sunlight. The authorities have also provided fans inside the sheds of tigers, chimpanzees, lions and the reptiles.

Proper food items are provided to the animals to maintain a balanced diet and keep them healthy in this sweltering heat.

Juicy fruits like cucumber and watermelon are fed to the monkeys, birds and chimpanzees. Along with healthy food, 250 to 300 ml lassi is given to the Chimpanzees.

According to the staff, the beast enjoys drinking it and is in a much better health than before.

Proper medication with a regular dehydration check is ensured by the authorities for the animals. They are also given ORS and required vitamins from time to time as a method of precaution against severe health this summer.

The carnivores are given 1.5 kg to 2 kg less meat than usual as meat is heat producing.

Kangaroos are given special care as they are most affected by hot weather. The shed they reside in has a layer of straw, tin and plywood to protect them from the scorching sunlight.

Water is sprinkled inside the enclosure at regular intervals to keep the temperature low.

The door is modified with a grass screen which stores the water that is sprinkled over it, which in turn cools down the temperature. Asis Kumar Samantha, Director of Alipore Zoo, has ensured that there is nothing to worry as far as the health of the wild animals is concerned in this summer.

The staff are working specifically towards the above mentioned methods and careful ensuring of it is looked after by the higher

authorities.

So, this summer, the wild are under the protective shield of the zoo authorities and are in, for a safe and comfortable summer.