News Summary
As temperatures soar in the Midlands, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia, SC, is taking innovative measures to protect its animals from the heat. With temperatures climbing to 94°F, zookeepers are closely monitoring vulnerable animals and providing cool areas, hydration strategies, and enrichment activities. The zoo is adapting its care routines to ensure well-being for both animals and visitors amid this extreme weather. The public is encouraged to stay hydrated and aware of animal needs during their visit, reinforcing the zoo’s commitment to health and safety.
Columbia, SC – The Midlands region is currently facing a significant heat wave, with temperatures expected to reach as high as 94°F on June 27, 2025. In response, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is implementing creative strategies to ensure the comfort and well-being of its animal residents amidst the rising temperatures. The extreme weather conditions have prompted zoo staff to take additional precautions, particularly for vulnerable animals, such as the elderly, sick, pregnant, or nursing ones.
As heat waves pose risks not just to humans but also to animals, Riverbanks Zoo is closely monitoring animal behavior and physical condition. The staff pays special attention to any signs of heat exhaustion among the animals. The zoo has temperature-controlled “backstage” areas equipped with trap doors that allow animals to escape the heat and cool down when necessary. Some animal enclosures also feature air-conditioned viewing areas for the comfort of visitors, ensuring a pleasant experience while observing the animals.
Innovative cooling methods are being employed by the zookeepers to provide relief to the animals during the heat wave. For instance, they create giant ice toys and frozen popsicles, particularly for older animals like Butch, a 22-year-old grizzly bear. In addition, certain species such as tortoises and white rhinoceroses are cooled off by wallowing in mud puddles, which is a natural behavior for them during hot weather.
The gorillas, part of the zoo’s diverse collection, are receiving electrolyte replenishment through Gatorade. Zookeepers are also carefully adjusting their diets to include more water-rich vegetables, such as cucumbers and frozen cantaloupe, which help the gorillas stay hydrated. The proactive measures taken by zookeepers demonstrate a commitment to the health and welfare of the animals.
In a further effort to provide cooling relief, box fans have been repurposed from various offices and strategically hung in trees within exhibits. These fans serve to create a breeze, helping to cool off the animals as they rest during the hottest parts of the day. While some animals thrive in the heat, others, including gorillas, prefer to seek shelter indoors when temperatures peak.
Riverbanks Zoo is also focused on visitor safety and comfort during the heat wave. The zoo is encouraging guests to stay hydrated, seek shade when possible, and be mindful of the animals, many of which may be resting or less active due to the warm weather conditions. This is an essential aspect of enjoying the zoo’s offerings while ensuring the well-being of the creatures on display.
In addition to managing the immediate effects of the heat, Riverbanks Zoo emphasizes its ongoing commitment to the overall care and well-being of its animal residents. The dedicated staff is prepared to adapt their care routines to meet the challenges posed by extreme weather, reaffirming the zoo’s mission to provide a safe and healthy environment for its inhabitants.
The current heat wave in the Midlands is expected to continue impacting not only local residents but also the animal community at Riverbanks Zoo. By employing innovative techniques and closely monitoring their animal residents, the zoo aims to maintain a balance between the comfort of its animals and the experience of visitors fortunate enough to observe these remarkable creatures in their care.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Riverbanks Zoo Heatwave
- WACH: Heat Stroke Risks at Riverbanks Zoo
- ABC Columbia: Zookeepers Prepare for Cold Weather
- Post and Courier: Columbia Hottest Summer 2024
- WIS TV: Riverbanks Zoo Annual Light Show
- Wikipedia: Heat Wave
- Google Search: Animals and Heat Waves
- Google Scholar: Animal Care in Heat Waves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Welfare
- Google News: Columbia Zoo News
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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