Zoo is finding ways to stay cool

FORT WAYNE, Ind. - (WANE) - As the drought and the heat take their toll on crops and us, it’s good to hear that one thing isn’t suffering in the heat. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is reporting good attendance so far in 2012. While some of the animals don’t like the heat, zoo officials are doing everything they can to keep them cool.

When you compare attendance numbers this year to last year, it’s looking very good. Although 2011 saw very hot temperatures in July, it was only a short lived heat wave. Cheryl Piropato, the Education and communication Director had this to say about attendance.

"Actually our attendance this year is ahead of last year. Of course last summer was a little on the hot side too, but so far this year we're doing good."

Cheryl also said that most of their visitors come in the morning when it’s still a bit cooler. There are also special summer hours that the zoo holds each year to help with the daytime heat. Each morning the zoo opens an hour early, and there are special evening hours each Wednesday. These special hours are available during the months of June and July.

But what about the animals? Some of the animals in the zoo love this hot weather. However some, like the red panda, aren’t used to these record temperatures.

"The red panda is one species that is a mountain species from the Himalayas, and they need cooler temperatures. So they have a special air conditioning unit set up in their bedroom. Anything we can do to keep them cool" said Piropato.

Animals that are sensitive to the heat are given special things to help keep them cool. Some animals will get a fan, a misting station, or even a sprinkler. Some of them will even have the option to stay inside their air conditioned home, or sit out in the shade. Zoo keepers are doing all they can to help keep all the animals safe.

The animals aren’t the only ones given special treatment. Visitors to the zoo will notice extra cooling items in the gift shops and misting stations located all around the zoo.

"Obviously the safety and the comfort of our visitors, animals, and staff is really top priority for us. So we do everything we can to keep everybody comfortable" said Piropato.