The Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden has been actively preparing for summer heat waves for years, with measures focused on supporting the animals’ natural thermoregulation.
Zoltán Hanga emphasized that although the zoo anticipates extreme heat every summer, the number of hot days has increased noticeably in recent years, making it increasingly important to ensure appropriate living conditions.
The spokesperson explained that
each species has a different “thermoneutral” temperature range—the range within which their bodies do not need to expend extra energy on cooling or heating.
In extreme heat, animals defend themselves using various natural mechanisms: they move and eat less, seek shade or water, and release excess heat through evaporation—for example, by panting, sweating, or, in the case of birds, by fluttering their throat muscles.
According to Zoltán Hanga, the zoo’s role is to support these natural processes.
To this end, the animals live in enclosures and habitats that feature both shaded and sunny areas, as well as windy and sheltered sections; for many species, pools are also available, allowing the animals to choose for themselves where to spend their time.
The spokesperson pointed out that during heat waves, it is particularly important to provide sufficient drinking water and moist feed, because the animals’ water needs increase at such times due to their evaporative cooling mechanisms.
The caretakers also employ special measures: the elephants are regularly hosed down with a garden hose, a shower facility is available for the orangutans, and shade sails are stretched over the enclosure of the African spectacled penguins. In addition, they operate a misting system, which the animals enjoy using.
The spokesperson explained that food frozen into ice blocks is primarily used as an environmental enrichment tool; the goal is not only to provide cooling but also to give the animals an engaging, challenging task in retrieving the food trapped inside the ice. He added that food or drinks that are too cold do not necessarily help the body cool down, because warming them up requires extra energy.
Zoltán Hanga also noted that
the zoo’s microclimate is more favorable than that of many other parts of the city. Due to the extensive vegetation, the canopy of shade-providing trees, and the bodies of water, the heat load in the area is generally lower.
He added that during heat waves, the Zoo pays special attention not only to the animals but also to the plants, visitors, and staff. The vegetation is watered more frequently, drinking fountains and misting stations are available for visitors, and staff members are provided with rehydration drinks.
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Via MTI; Featured photo: Pexels
