RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil — Animals at Rio de Janeiro’s BioParque Zoo were given popsicles and frozen treats on Tuesday as the city endured another day of extreme summer heat.
Zoo officials said the icy snacks were tailored to the dietary needs of each species. Some animals received frozen fruit, while others were offered specialized mixtures, including frozen blood for certain predators. A group of monkeys enjoyed watermelon popsicles, while a jaguar carefully tried to fish out ground chicken popsicles from a floating tray in its water tank.
“When she tries to fish out the frozen food, she ends up ingesting water as well,” said Letizia Feitoza, a biologist at the zoo. “This is important for her hydration.”
Officials emphasized that the frozen treats are part of the zoo’s routine animal care, helping provide thermal comfort during periods of extreme heat. Similar measures were implemented last summer when high temperatures affected much of Brazil’s southeast.
The mercury in Rio de Janeiro rose above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) on Sunday and Monday, prompting city authorities to issue a Level 3 heat alert and warn residents of health risks associated with prolonged exposure.
Despite the sweltering conditions, visitors flocked to BioParque Zoo to watch the animals enjoy their frozen treats. “I thought it was really cool,” said Lorena Carvalho, a teacher visiting the zoo. “I think it brings them more comfort.”
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
