Zoo staff in Manila faced an unusual challenge as record heat swept over the city in April, forcing them to carefully manage the behavior of the lions to reduce stress and the risk of heat-related illness. This adjustment came after reporting from Phys.org, which cited updates from the AFP news agency, underscoring how urban wildlife centers adapt during extreme temperatures.
Over the past several days, thermometers in the metropolis climbed to around 37 °C, a level that can push large predators beyond their comfort zone. The immediate goal for the zoo team was clear: protect the animals from heat stress while maintaining normal routines and safety on a hectic schedule held indoors and outdoors.
To keep the big cats cool, the veterinary leadership, led by the head of veterinary services, implemented a practical set of measures. Concrete enclosures are often heat conductors, absorbing sun and emitting warmth. The staff sprayed water on walls and floors throughout the day to lower surface temperatures and create cooler microclimates within the habitats. This approach helps reduce heat buildup without changing the overall environment dramatically.
The lions and tigers received additional temperature management through frozen treats that combine ground meat or chicken with animal blood and vitamins. These frozen candies serve dual purposes: they provide a refreshing, energy-boosting snack and help the animals stay hydrated during hot periods. Regular water access remains essential, and the big cats are encouraged to bathe in pools positioned inside their enclosures to help regulate body temperature and promote comfort.
Manila Zoo staff share that they were prepared for seasonal heat but were surprised by how intense the temperatures became. The team had to quickly adapt routines and develop new practices to support the welfare of the animals while continuing daily responsibilities in a busy urban setting. The experience highlights how animal care teams balance enrichment, health monitoring, and safety during extreme conditions.
Heat management is not limited to daily care at the zoo. It is a shared concern among wildlife facilities across tropical and subtropical regions. Regular monitoring of humidity, wind patterns, and solar exposure informs decisions about shade placement, water features, and feeding schedules. When the mercury rises, staff may alter the times when the animals are most active or provide additional opportunities for cooling through misting systems and shaded areas.
In parallel with on-site measures, the facility collaborates with veterinarians to track physiological indicators of heat strain. Observing signs such as heavy breathing, reduced appetite, or changes in activity helps the team respond quickly and effectively. The goal is to maintain a stable routine that supports the animals’ natural behaviors while preventing overheating.
The broader context of these actions includes a growing awareness of how climate patterns affect urban wildlife facilities. Heat waves stress not only the animals but also the staff who care for them. Training and preparedness become crucial, ensuring that caretakers can implement cooling strategies swiftly without compromising safety. This readiness is increasingly part of standard operating procedures in zoos around the world, especially in cities facing frequent heat spikes.
Color-coded heat warning systems have become a common reference point for both staff and visitors. The idea is to provide a simple, actionable framework that communicates risk levels and prompts appropriate adjustments in animal care, visitor guidelines, and infrastructure readiness. Implementing such schemes helps facilities stay aligned with public health and animal welfare standards while safeguarding human teams working in high-heat environments.
As the summer months approach in North America and other regions with varying climates, many zoos evaluate their own cooling strategies, habitat designs, and enrichment programs. Lessons learned from Manila’s experience can inspire broader discussions about best practices for keeping large mammals comfortable in hot weather. The focus remains on humane care, proactive planning, and collaborative effort among veterinary staff, zookeeper teams, and facility managers.