Cool Treats for Every Species at the Zoo

If the last two days were rough, imagine wearing a fur coat in a heat wave. Fortunately, animals and visitors alike can stay cool at the Turtle Back Zoo. 

Helping the Zoo Animals Keep Cool
o     "Fishcicles" – fish frozen in blocks of ice (otters)
o    "Bloodcicles" – frozen blocks of blood (carnivores, such as the Amur leopard)
o    "Fruitcicles" – fruit frozen in blocks of ice (bears) 
o    Sprinklers (elk, bison, kangaroos, Scottish Highland cows)
o    Pools (penguins)

 Helping the Zoo Visitors Keep Cool
o     Spraying misters throughout the Zoo
o    Jumping fountains that splash on the visitor path
o    Air conditioned exhibits (Reptile House, Bears) 
o    Cool breeze on the free train ride
o    Ice cream and Italian ices 
o    Cold bottled water available in vending machines throughout the Zoo
o    Evening hours on Family Night Wednesdays (summer only), for visiting during a cooler portion of the day

"The safety of our animals and our visitors is our number one priority, and we've built in protection of both into the overall Turtle Back Zoo experience," said Dr. Jeremy Goodman, Zoo Director. "Summer can bring some extreme temperatures, but it is also a great time of year to see many of our animals in action."

Patch's own Marilyn Lehren is on the scene. Check back later for photos.