Billings, Montana – ZooMontana keepers have had more work recently, attempting to save animals from extreme heat.
“It is so hot out here and our animals are actually handling it pretty well, and I would say that’s a big part due to our hard zoo keeping work, of course. We spend most of our days trying to keep these animals cool. We have a lot of tricks under our sleeve, so to say,” said Allyson Dredla, lead wetlands keeper at ZooMontana.
Filling pools with cold water for the wetland animals and feeding them with frozen treats and food like carrots and bell peppers are just a few of the strategies.
“Sometimes, on really hot days, we will actually give our animals access to what’s called a night house or indoor area. They are an off exhibit from the public, as kind of a safe space for them at night time or during a storm, but also great to utilize these night house as a cooling area during the day too,” said Dredla.
In order to keep animals out of the sun, the zoo has to shut earlier due to the heat. This does not mean visitors won’t be able to see their favorite animals.
“But if you do come in the summer, come very first thing. This is a great time to see animals out and playing with their enrichment before they get too tired for the day,” said Dedla.
Visitors should not forget to take care of themselves when at the zoo.
“I think it’s also important for guests to remember, even though they are having fun and their kids are running around at the zoo, to also to keep cool and drink plenty of water, fluids and take breaks if you need to. If it’s honestly too hot, just stay home and stay safe,” said Dredla.
Due to the outdoor temperatures, the zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
