Overview

• Zoos from Frankfurt and Kronberg to Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne have activated comprehensive cooling protocols to protect wildlife during this week’s record-breaking heatwave.
• Water-based systems—including pools, sprinklers and motion-activated showers—are operational in multiple parks for species ranging from elephants to alpacas.
• Keepers distribute "Eisbomben"—ice blocks filled with fruits, meat, fish or rodents—to serve as cooling enrichment for species from bears and foxes to sea lions.
• Dedicated chilled enclosures, such as a 7 °C hall for emperor penguins and air-conditioned panda quarters, provide on-demand cold retreats.
• Staff report animals are adapting by seeking shade, extending daily siestas and using indoor areas to regulate body heat under intense summer temperatures.