LANSING, Mich. — Humans aren't the only ones who need to keep cool when extreme temps hit.
The Potter Park Zoo is also challenged with keeping all of its inhabitants safe during times when the heat index hits triple digits.
The zoo actually prepares for it each summer.
Annie Marcum, the lead zookeeper for carnivores and primates told NEWS 10, "We don't make our animals cool down, but give them options to regulate their own temperature."
They said that the animals always have access to water and that zookeepers can turn misters on in the cages.
And, they can give them blocks of ice to play with or lay on.
"I want to make sure an animal has different temperatures in his exhibit," Marcum said. "And on a hot day, we're trying to make sure they have extra space in there so they can choose to go in and use that space if they need it."
Some animals...especially the ones from colder regions, even have air conditioning in their outdoor houses as well as their interior enclosures.
The zookeepers also can take breaks in buildings with AC if they get too overheated.
For more information on Potter Park Zoo click here.
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