Saivivek Allakonda Hyderabad

NehruZoological Park has implemented various temperature-control measures to protect animals from dehydration and heat stress during the ongoing summer season. The facilities are benefiting around 2,100 animals belonging to 196 species. To shield animals from extreme heat, zoo authorities have installed sprinklers, foggers and small rain guns in key enclosures, particularly in herbivore zones, the Reptile House, macaw enclosures, pheasantry and aviaries. Temporary shaded shelters, thunga roofing and kashkash thattis have also been arranged to reduce direct exposure to sunlight.

Coolers have been installed in monkey and carnivore sections, while the Nocturnal Animal House has been equipped with air-conditioners and exhaust fans. To help animals stay hydrated, keepers are serving seasonal fruits such as watermelon, musk melon and citrus fruits. Continuous supply of cold drinking water with electrolyte and vitamin supplements, including Glucon-D, Electral, vitamin C, B-complex, Stresswell and Thermo Care liquids, is being provided to reduce summer stress, said J Vasantha, Curator of Nehru Zoological Park. Park supervisors said teams are regularly wetting the thattis and thunga coverings three to four times a day and closely monitoring the animals’ condition throughout the heatwave.

With a large number of people visiting the zoo during the summer holidays, staff have also arranged additional drinking water points, shaded resting areas and misting facilities at selected locations across the park to help visitors cope with the heat while exploring the zoo.