Mysuru: When humans opt for fans and air conditioners to beat the summer heat, Mysuru zoo authorities have opted for water sprinklers to aid animals overcome the harsh summer.
The state is facing the worst drought in recent times with temperatures soaring across the state. City of Mysuru is no exception and has recorded the highest temperatures.
In this scenario, around 1450 animals and 830 birds housed in the zoo are bearing the brunt of heat silently, especially the ones in the open like elephants, giraffes, camels, lions and chimpanzees.
“Water is sprinkled on the bodies of animals once in 3 hours to keep them cool. The food given to herbivorous animals contain lot of water content, which include water melons, oranges, mosambis, grapes and cucumbers. Even carnivorous animals are fed with frozen meat and chicken. Chimpanzees are fed with tender coconut water and vitamin tablets to help them withstand the vagaries of summer period”, said Zoo Director Kamala Karikalan, explaining the measures taken.