As temperatures soar to record-breaking levels across Central Europe, keepers are racing to adapt enrichment schedules, using frozen relief to protect species from the relentless sun.
An early surprise
The twin polar bears, Aleut and Gregor, wasted no time. The moment the gates to their outdoor enclosure swung open, the 16-year-old siblings, originally born in Nuremberg, Germany, hurled themselves into a mountain of glistening ice cubes. They rolled, pawed, and lounged against the frozen mounds as the mercury climbed towards a sweltering 38°C (100.4°F).
For the staff at Prague Zoo, this delivery of tonnes of ice has become a critical tool in the fight to keep animals comfortable. What began as an experiment two years ago in response to the accelerating climate crisis has now become a logistical necessity.
Adapting to a shifting climate
This year, the zoo planned to stockpile ice strictly for July and August, historically the hottest months in the Czech Republic. The weather, however, had other ideas.
A blistering heatwave struck prematurely, shattering national records on June 28 when temperatures hit a staggering 41.9°C (107.4°F) — the hottest day in the country’s history. “The weather continues to surprise us,” said zoo spokesman Filip Mašek. “We learned our lesson. Next year, the ice will be prepared earlier.”
Cooling beyond the carnivores
While the polar bears are the most theatrical recipients, they are not the only animals benefiting from the deep freeze. Keepers have been distributing frozen treats across various habitats, a practice that offers both physical cooling and mental stimulation. “The bears cool themselves down with it, and at the same time it serves as enrichment for their life in the zoo,” Mašek explained.
In previous years, otters, elephants, and parrots have all benefited from the chilling deliveries. The gorilla troop is particularly fond of a slightly fancier version of the treatment: ice cubes packed with frozen fruit. Meanwhile, other species that are naturally better acclimatised to the heat navigate the high temperatures by retreating into the shade, indoor enclosures, or taking dips in various cooling pools.
As extreme weather events become more frequent, the zoo is being forced to permanently adjust its seasonal infrastructure calendar, shifting heat-defence measures to earlier in the year.
