At the Mykolaiv Zoo, elephants and hippos have pools, and the bears cool off with fruit ice cream

In hot weather, some of the animals are moved to cool indoor enclosures, and a cooling misting frame is available for visitors

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04 Jul 2026

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In Mykolaiv, the Mykolaiv Zoo reported how it ensures animals’ comfort during the summer heat: pools and ponds have been arranged for them, and on the hottest days bears are treated to a special fruit ice cream; at the same time a cooling misting frame is operating for visitors.

The information was published on the zoo’s Facebook page, where they emphasized that staff monitor the animals’ condition daily and promptly adjust housing conditions depending on the weather.

On the hottest days even species that naturally live in warm climates prefer shade or cool indoor enclosures, and additional measures are applied to northern residents, including the Far Eastern leopard and the polar bear Smetanka, because animals with thick fur find it harder to tolerate heat.

For most species, summer water bodies operate in enclosures: otters, capybaras and the polar bear readily bathe in them, which helps the animals cool down faster and reduces stress from high temperatures.

The largest pools are intended for hippos Rikki and Kazimir, and the young elephants have separate basins where the animals not only take showers but also enjoy swimming, turning water procedures into active play.

Additionally, during hot periods bears are offered fruit ice cream, which staff prepare from fresh seasonal fruits and berries, simultaneously refreshing and diversifying their diet.

A cooling misting frame has been installed for guests on the zoo grounds, and the administration invites residents and tourists to spend time in the shady park area and watch the animals in comfortable conditions.