How do zoos prepare for winter storms?
This weekend’s freezing temperatures and snow won’t just affect humans — zoo animals need to prepare for the coming storm, too
A tiger enjoying the winter weather at the Bronx Zoo in New York City in 2009.
James Deveney/Getty Images
Millions of people across the US are bracing for a major winter storm this weekend that is expected to bring plunging temperatures, “catastrophic” snow accumulations, freezing rain and heavy snowfall. officials say. But humans aren’t the only ones who are succumbing; Zoos across the country are also preparing for the winter storm.
In Texas, the Houston Zoo has outfitted its buildings and barns with heaters “designed to withstand extreme conditions.” Said In a blog post on Friday. The animals would have access to extra hay and bedding, and food was already stocked. “Throughout the zoo, sensitive plants are being protected by covering, and generators have been deployed to provide backup power if needed,” the blog post said.
Elsewhere in the state, the Dallas Zoo Allegedly Plans to bring many of its animals indoors and increase enrichment activities like caregiver training, food puzzles and nature sounds. “Humans can stay inside and watch Netflix,” said zoo curator Keith Zdrojewski. Dallas Morning News. “When animals stay inside for several days, it can become very boring for them.”
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Similarly, Fort Worth’s Zoo has brought its endangered Pan Box Turtles in Fort Worth Star-Telegram informed. Meanwhile, in Cincinnati, animal care staff are planning to stay at the zoo overnight to keep an eye on the animals, according to Cincinnati Zoo. And in Washington, D.C., if temperatures drop below 35 degrees Fahrenheit (1.7 degrees Celsius), as currently projected, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo will be home to species including Asian small-clawed otters, brown pelicans, orangutans and gorillas. will likely be taken indoorsAlso, as per the zoo’s standard procedures.
Of course, other animals will be just fine in the cold. At the Philadelphia Zoo, officials hope Marcy the snow leopard will thrive this weekend. according to A local news report. and in Sedgwick County, Kansas, one amur tigerA species that is very well adapted to low temperatures, Allegedly “Loves” the cold.
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