In September, strong heat waves hit Brazil, especially Foz do Iguaçu. These hot days affect animals that are not adapted to living in such high temperatures, damaging their physical and psychological functions. In order to avoid stress for the animals, Ecopark implemented some alternative measures, as a result of which it sought to provide comfort for the animals through environmental enrichment on hot days.
In the immersion tank, the birds were bathed by spraying water on them. Birds, unlike humans, don't sweat to regulate their body temperature, so they used this time to relieve the heat. They also had fresh water to drink throughout the day.
As well as the birds in the vivarium, some of the animals on the mini farm also enjoyed a hose bath to cool off. The ostriches, llamas and Jersey cows took advantage of this enrichment to regulate their body heat too.
Alternatives other than bathing were also offered, such as fruit and vegetable ice creams for the giant rabbits and guinea pigs. Popsicles were chosen as environmental enrichment for these animals because bathing can cause possible illnesses or irritations to their skin. According to biologist Anna Cecília, who specializes in animal welfare, the popsicles help to refresh and also contribute to a sensory experience. The animals spend more time with the activity and creating strategies to get to the food. It's also a way of increasing water consumption.
