Berlin Zoo Keeps Animals Cool With Ice Bombs and Showers

When temperatures soar across Europe, even zoo animals need a little help staying cool.

Berlin Zoo has rolled out special heat-relief programs for its bears and elephants as the continent faces an unusually intense summer heatwave. The creative approach turns necessary cooling into enriching play that keeps animals active and comfortable.

Brown bears received the star treatment with "ice bombs," large frozen blocks packed with fish, fruit and vegetables. Keepers tossed these chilly treasures into the bear enclosure, encouraging the animals to dive into their pools and forage for the treats hidden inside the ice.

The frozen surprises serve double duty. Zoo spokesperson Hanja Runge explained that the ice bombs help keep the bears mentally stimulated while providing crucial relief from rising temperatures.

Meanwhile, the elephants gathered around hosepipes for their own cooling sessions. They played under streams of water, spraying themselves and drinking deeply as they splashed about.

Though elephants evolved in hot African and Asian climates, they still rely on water, shade and mud to regulate their body temperature effectively. In extreme heat, access to these cooling resources becomes even more critical for their wellbeing.

Why This Inspires

This story shows how small acts of creativity can make a big difference in animal welfare. Rather than just meeting basic needs, Berlin Zoo staff transformed routine care into enriching experiences that engage the animals' natural behaviors.

The zoo regularly adjusts animal care during warm periods, but this heatwave has prompted extra focus on hydration, shade and enrichment activities. These efforts help reduce heat stress while maintaining the animals' physical and mental health.

Watching these magnificent creatures enjoy their cooling treats reminds us that compassionate care requires both knowledge and imagination.