Siberian tigers rest satisfied under the shed, stretching, yawning and grooming their fur. Hippos rest in cooling water to avoid the scorching sun. And pandas stay indoors enjoying the breeze from air conditioners.
These were recent scenes in the Changsha Ecological Zoo.
Zookeepers give animals custom-made cooling treats in an effort to protect them from Changsha's surging temperatures, according to a report in the Changsha Evening Post on July 19.
With a heatwave approaching, the zoo has provided various ways to help beat the heat for over 3,000 animals, like pools, sheds, showers and air conditioned facilities.
To build up the animals' appetites, zookeepers prepare watermelons, grass, and vegetables for herbivores and fresh meat and water for carnivores.