Indian Zoo Keeps Animals Cool With Mist and Khus Mats

When the mercury rises in Visakhapatnam, the animals at Indira Gandhi Zoological Park get five-star treatment.

The sprawling 625-acre zoo nestled between the Eastern Ghats hills and the Bay of Bengal has turned summer survival into a science. Water sprinklers create cooling mists across enclosures while traditional khus mats drip steadily, releasing their natural fragrance as they cool the air.

Zoo staff don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Each species gets a personalized summer care plan based on their unique needs and natural habitats.

Thatched roofs filter the harsh summer glare while animals retreat to shaded corners designed specifically for relief. The combination of ancient cooling wisdom and modern management creates comfortable microclimates throughout the park.

Water plays a starring role in the cooling strategy. From shallow pools for wading to deep tanks for swimming, animals have constant access to refreshment as temperatures climb outside the park gates.

The zoo staff adjusts more than just the environment. Animal diets shift to include more hydrating foods, and daily routines change to keep the most strenuous activities during cooler morning and evening hours.

Why This Inspires

This story shows what thoughtful planning and genuine care can accomplish. Zoo staff aren't just reacting to heat waves, they're anticipating animal needs and creating systems that work year after year.

The blend of traditional methods like khus mats with modern techniques like timed sprinkler systems proves that old wisdom and new innovation make powerful partners. Every detail matters, from the angle of shade structures to the timing of meals.

What stands out most is the individualized attention. In a park housing hundreds of animals across dozens of species, staff still recognize that a tiger's cooling needs differ from an elephant's, and both differ from a reptile's requirements.

These animals can't speak for themselves, but the zoo's careful planning speaks volumes about human compassion and responsibility toward creatures in our care.