Zookeepers at Antwerp Zoo and the Planckendael Animal Park near Mechelen (Antwerp Province) have been handing out specially made ice creams to the animals in their care. This is something they do each temperatures reach 30°C or above.
The flavour of the ice creams given to the animals varies "This way we not only keep them cool but also provide them with nourishment", zoo spokeswoman Ilse Segers told VRT News.
A wide range of flavours are being provided and the ices vary in size according to which animal they are intended for.
"There are all kinds of flavours and sizes according to the animal's diet. Ice creams with meat in them for the lions, carrot ice creams for the buffaloes and lemon or other fruit flavors and nuts for the monkeys."
Ices are given to the animals each time temperatures rise above 30°C. "The keepers decide when this is to be done. They then place an order with our kitchen for ice creams that are full of fruits and vegetables."
In addition to refreshment, the ice creams also provide the animals with nourishment. "They clearly enjoy them and in addition to this the ices provide nourishment”.
Moreover, eating the ice creams provides a challenge for some of the animals.
"All the animals enjoy getting to work on the ices. A bulky buffalo has to put in quite an effort using its horns to break a big block of ice. Just like the elephants that crush their ices with their paws”.