Dehradun Zoo Steps Up Heatwave Protection Measures for Animals Amid Rising Temperatures

May 18, 2026

Dehradun: With northern India witnessing a sharp rise in temperatures, the Dehradun Zoo has intensified measures to protect animals from the ongoing heatwave by introducing special cooling and care arrangements across the premises.

Zoo authorities said several steps have been taken to ensure the comfort and safety of animals, including operating fountains, covering enclosures with tarpaulins to shield animals from direct sunlight, and spraying water regularly to maintain a cooling effect and humidity inside the enclosures.

Cooling Foods, Water Holes and Fountains Arranged for Animals

Dehradun Zoo Range Officer Mohan Singh Rawat said the arrangements were made keeping in mind the vulnerability of animals during extreme summer conditions.

“Animals will be affected by the heat. We have made several arrangements to mitigate heatwaves, such as running fountains and covering bird enclosures with tarps so they are protected from direct sunlight,” Rawat told ANI.

As part of the measures, birds are being provided with cooling foods such as cucumbers and watermelons to maintain hydration levels. Water sources and bathing facilities have also been created for animals, including emus, ostriches, tigers and bears.

“We are spraying water across the enclosures to create a cooling effect. Fruits like cucumbers and watermelons are being provided to birds, while animals like tigers and bears are being given water holes and fountains for bathing,” he added.

Rawat said the zoo receives over 5,000 visitors daily during the summer season.

Zoos Across India Introduce Heatwave Precautions

Apart from Dehradun, several zoos across the country have also intensified heatwave protection measures for animals and birds.

In Vadodara, the Shri Sayajibaug Zoological Park has introduced water spraying, ice blocks, foggers and hydration supplements to protect animals from heat stress and dehydration.

Zoo Curator Pratyush Patankar said preparations were strengthened following a heatwave alert issued by the Meteorological Department.

“There is a heatwave alert for the next 10 days with temperatures expected to cross 43 degrees Celsius in Vadodara. We have made complete arrangements to ensure animals do not suffer from heat stress,” Patankar said.

Bathinda Zoo Issues Advisories for Animal Safety

Meanwhile, Bathinda Zoo has also put in place special arrangements to safeguard animals during the extreme heat conditions.

Bathinda Animal Husbandry Department Assistant Director Dr. Vijay Kumar said advisories had been issued and veterinary staff remained stationed at the zoo for timely treatment of wildlife.

“The Forest Department is strictly following all protocols. Animals are being given constant access to water, while feeding timings are restricted to morning and evening hours to conserve energy during hot weather,” Dr. Kumar said.

Officials across zoos emphasised that cooling infrastructure, proper hydration and regulated feeding schedules remain essential for ensuring animal welfare during the ongoing heatwave.