Gibbon snacks on popsicle to beat the heat

By Dean Murray

A gibbon is seen acting like a human as it slurps a popsicle at a Somerset zoo during this week's heatwave, with temperatures reaching over 30C (86F).

Zookeepers at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall have been cooling off their animals with chilled treats and water.

Beatrice the gibbon clearly appreciated the gesture, but had to fend off the sneaky hand of co-parent Elwood as he tried to snatch the homemade apple and zucchini popsicle.

Elsewhere at the attraction, elephants enjoyed refreshing hose-downs, and otters, capybaras and Aqua the rescue tiger splashed in their pools.

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Chris Wilkinson, curator at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, said: "Just like us during periods of hot weather, it's important that our animals stay cool for their welfare, comfort and safety.

"Our animal keepers carefully monitor all species during warm conditions and provide a variety of cooling opportunities, including ice popsicles and hose-downs, alongside access to pools and shaded areas."

The zoo and conservation charity is using a range of enrichment activities and cooling measures to ensure animals remain comfortable and safe in the soaring temperatures.

The zoo's African elephants and southern white rhinos also have access to mud wallows, which help them regulate their body temperature during warm weather. Habitats across the zoo feature shaded areas, allowing animals to choose how they stay comfortable throughout the day.