Extreme Heatwave: How Delhi Zoo and Wildlife SOS are safeguarding animals

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning for Delhi, which recently recorded an unprecedented 52 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2024. This extreme heat is severely affecting urban wildlife, with birds and animals struggling to find shade and water.

Delhi Zoo's Heat Mitigation Measures
To mitigate the impact of the extreme heat, the Delhi Zoo has implemented several measures. Coolers and sprinklers have been installed in animal enclosures, and the water in mud ponds and pools is changed every 3 to 10 days. In an interview with ANI, Delhi Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar shared, “The zoo authorities have introduced comprehensive measures to protect the animals from the extreme heat and create a more comfortable environment during the hottest part of the year.” Wall-hanging thermometers in key enclosures help monitor temperature fluctuations.


Enhancements in the Carnivore Section
In the carnivore section, water pools have been repaired and filled to ensure running water during peak hours, which helps lower temperatures. Additionally, fruit ice balls are distributed daily to primates as a refreshing treat. Kumar explained, “With these steps, we hope to ensure that the animals do not suffer from heat-related illnesses and can live comfortably through the peak summer months.”

Wildlife SOS Interventions
Wildlife SOS, a conservation non-profit organization, has ramped up its rescue operations to save hundreds of birds, reptiles, and mammals from the scorching heat. Natasha Ashok, a communication associate at Wildlife SOS, emphasized the urgency in a blog, stating, “Given these alarming projections, we must take proactive measures to protect both ourselves and the animals under Wildlife SOS’s care from the impending heatwave.”

To combat the heat, Wildlife SOS has installed water sprinklers and coolers and added fruits to the animals’ diets to keep them hydrated. Ashok further noted, “In summer, the bears’ diet includes an additional one-and-a-half kg of fresh, juicy fruits such as watermelons, papayas, muskmelons, and sun melons, which are rich in nutrients and also help to hydrate them. Furthermore, ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is added to the water troughs in each den throughout the hot season.”

Charity Bird Hospital's Efforts
Despite these efforts, many animals, particularly birds, are still suffering. The Charity Bird Hospital inside the Digambar Jain temple in Chandni Chowk is providing free treatment to birds affected by the heatwave. Dr. Haravatar Singh, a senior consultant at the hospital, reported a significant increase in the number of birds suffering from heatstroke. “As the heatwave intensifies, the number of birds suffering from heatstroke will increase, resulting in more sick birds,” he said.

Birds have a naturally high body temperature, around 107°F, but during a heatwave, it can rise much higher. If a bird’s body temperature exceeds 110°F, it becomes critical, requiring immediate care. Singh explained, “Birds often get sick because they don’t find proper shelter or access to clean water. The water also gets heated due to the temperature rise, preventing them from drinking it. We sprinkle water on the bird and provide adequate ventilation. We have large fans that continuously circulate air through the cages. Sprinkling water on the birds and ensuring airflow helps cool their bodies.”

Delhi Zoo's Summer Care Management Plan
The Delhi Zoo has also introduced a proper diet plan for animals during the summer. Seasonal fruits are provided to primates, bears, herbivores, and elephants. Kumar noted, “We are fully prepared with life-saving medicines and emergency services if our animals get sick.”

Veterinary doctors are available to monitor and care for the animals. The zoo staff remains vigilant during peak hours and informs the Zoo Hospital of any behavioral changes in animals. Animals are released in exhibit shifts to prevent prolonged exposure to heat.

Special Provisions for Carnivores and Other Animals
For the carnivore enclosures, twin water pools are available and kept filled alternately to maintain running water during peak hours. Stagnant water in moats is regularly cleaned, disinfected, and refilled. Sprinklers are installed in all carnivore enclosures, including those for tigers, lions, leopards, jackals, hyenas, wolves, wild dogs, and Indian foxes. Water coolers are placed in holding cells and regularly checked by keepers. The diet of carnivorous animals is adjusted for summer, with sufficient fruits and liquid diets provided to other animals.

Enhanced Care for Birds and Elephants
Artificial sheds made of bamboo and straw are provided for deer to rest underneath, and elephants receive water showers at least three times daily using a pressure pump. Sand mounds are placed in all elephant enclosures. Fruit ice balls are prepared daily for bears. Sidewall curtains protect birds from hot winds, with water sprinkled on curtains, floors, and rooftops to maintain cooler temperatures.

Delhi's extreme heat continues to challenge wildlife conservation efforts. While significant steps are being taken by organizations like the Delhi Zoo and Wildlife SOS, ongoing vigilance and enhanced measures are crucial to protect urban wildlife from the severe impact of heatwaves.

(With inputs from ANI)