Our Zoo Animals Beat the Heat as Temperatures Soar Across the UK

As temperatures continue to rise across the UK this week, with some areas forecast to reach up to 39°C and red weather warnings in place, zookeepers here at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm are helping their residents stay cool during the heatwave.

We're using a range of enrichment activities and cooling measures to ensure animals remain comfortable and safe in the soaring temperatures.

From elephants enjoying refreshing hose-downs to gibbons tucking into homemade ice lollies, and otters, capybaras and Aqua the rescue tiger splashing in their pools, animals across the Zoo are finding fun ways to beat the heat.

Chris Wilkinson, Curator here at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, said: "Just like us during periods of hot weather, it's important that our animals stay cool for their welfare, comfort and safety. Our animal keepers carefully monitor all species during warm conditions and provide a variety of cooling opportunities, including ice lollies and hose-downs, alongside access to pools and shaded areas."

The Zoo's African elephants - Janu, Uli, Sutton, Mchumba and Imi - and Southern white rhinos - Rumba and Rumbel - also have access to mud wallows, which help them regulate their body temperature during warm weather. Habitats across the Zoo feature shaded areas, allowing animals to choose how they stay comfortable throughout the day.

If you're visiting us during the heatwave, please make sure you are drinking plenty of water from our free water stations around the site, and take regular shaded breaks.