BERLIN — Berlin Zoo has introduced emergency cooling measures for animals as a heatwave affecting large parts of Europe pushed temperatures higher across Germany, zoo officials said this week, with keepers deploying water showers, sprinklers and large frozen treats to help animals cope with the conditions.
The measures were implemented as forecasters warned that an unusually early summer heatwave could intensify across parts of western and central Europe. Temperatures in Germany have approached the upper 30s Celsius in recent days, while authorities in several European countries have issued heat alerts and weather warnings.
Zoo staff provided brown bears with large frozen blocks, described by keepers as “ice bombs,” containing fish, fruit and vegetables. The treats were placed in enclosures to encourage the animals to enter the water and remain active while cooling down. Elephants were sprayed with hoses and allowed access to additional water sources as part of the heat-response measures, according to zoo spokesperson Hanja Runge.
“On hot days, our keepers repeatedly provide small refreshment opportunities,” Runge said, according to remarks reported by German media. She added that the zoo seeks to encourage animals to cool themselves while remaining active during periods of elevated temperatures.
Zoo officials said many animals naturally reduce activity during the hottest parts of the day and spend more time resting in shaded areas. Bison were observed using sprinkler systems installed in their enclosure, while elephants alternated between bathing, drinking and spraying themselves with water. Brown bears entered pools to retrieve the frozen food blocks.
The cooling measures coincided with broader concerns about the effects of the heatwave across Europe. Weather agencies and emergency authorities have issued warnings in several countries, citing risks to public health, transportation networks and wildlife. In France, rail operators reported service disruptions linked to high temperatures, while parts of Italy and Spain remained under heat alerts.
Berlin authorities also issued heat warnings in recent days, advising residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and take precautions during the hottest hours of the day. Weather forecasts indicated temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius in the German capital.
Visitors to the zoo sought relief in cooler indoor areas, including the penguin house, while many animals remained in shaded sections of their enclosures. Zoo officials said animal care routines are routinely adjusted during periods of extreme weather, with additional emphasis on hydration, shade and enrichment activities designed to reduce heat stress.
As of Sunday, the cooling measures remained in place, and forecasters warned that elevated temperatures could continue across parts of Europe into the coming days.
