Little Rock, Arkansas – With summer temperatures soaring and extreme heat warnings issued across parts of Arkansas, the Little Rock Zoo is working hard to make sure both its animals and visitors stay safe and comfortable. As the heat continues to rise, zoo officials are taking extra steps to keep everyone cool — from their wild residents to the families who visit.
For the animals who call the Little Rock Zoo home, beating the heat isn’t just about staying in the shade. According to Zoo Director Susan Altrui, staff members have come up with several creative ways to make sure the animals stay comfortable. “The mister stations have probably been the biggest success for us, I think the mister stations being set up around the zoo have been the biggest hit when it comes to heat,” Altrui said.
Throughout the zoo, visitors can spot misting stations that not only keep the animals cool but are also a big hit with guests. Families walking through the park often pause to enjoy a quick burst of cool mist, which offers relief from the sweltering sun. Children especially seem to enjoy this simple solution. Brelynn Dickens, age 12, said, “the misters are all around the park, and my nephew he loves the misters.” Another young guest, just 9 years old, explained she made good use of the mist machines to cool off throughout the day.
But keeping cool isn’t just about misters. The zoo has also introduced ice treats to help the animals cope with the heat. These frozen snacks, which often include favorite treats hidden inside, serve a double purpose — offering both hydration and enrichment for the animals. Whether it’s a block of ice with fruits for the primates or a frozen meat treat for the big cats, the animals are given plenty of opportunities to chill out.
Altrui explained that hydration is always a top priority, not just for guests but for every animal on the grounds. Water stations are spread across the zoo for visitors, while the animal habitats feature water sprouts, pools, and plenty of shaded areas. “One thing we hear a lot is ‘why don’t you have a place where they can get some water’ and every single one of our animals has access to plenty of water,” Altrui said.
In addition to water and ice treats, the animals are given the choice of whether to spend their time outdoors or inside their cool, shaded enclosures. Zookeepers monitor the animals closely to ensure none of them are getting overheated and that they’re adjusting well to the high temperatures.
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Despite the oppressive heat, the Little Rock Zoo continues to welcome families looking for a summer outing. Hydration stations, misting areas, and shaded spots provide visitors with opportunities to take a break and cool off throughout the park. Staff encourage everyone visiting the zoo to dress for the weather, stay hydrated, and take advantage of the cooling stations.
As Arkansas weathers this latest stretch of extreme heat, the Little Rock Zoo is showing how thoughtful planning and small measures can go a long way in keeping both people and animals safe. Whether it’s a misting station, a frozen treat, or simply a cool place to sit and rest, every effort is helping to make sure the summer heat doesn’t ruin a day at the zoo.
