Rome Zoo’s Genius Heat Hack: Ice Pops & Watermelon for Tigers in 40°C Madness!

Facing a 40 °C heatwave, Rome’s zoo treats animals to icy delights

This August, as Italy swelters under the return of the African anticyclone “Caronte,” temperatures have soared above 40 °C in Rome. While we humans seek refuge under umbrellas and sip endless liters of chilled water, the city’s beloved Bioparco di Roma is going one step further—serving up homemade ice pops and slices of fresh watermelon to help its animal residents beat the heat.

From fruits to fish: a bespoke menu of frozen treats

At the Bioparco, zookeepers have devised a creative “ice selection” tailored to each species’ diet. Here’s a glimpse of their chilly offerings:

Marine mammals: Seals and otters enjoy fish-based ice pops, crafted from pureed fish stock and water, frozen into playful shapes.

Big cats: Tigers of Sumatra receive meat-infused ice blocks, slow-melted to mimic the thrill of a long hunt.

Small mammals and primates: Lemurs and monkeys nibble on fruit cubes—mango, melon or berry mixes—frozen on branches for added enrichment.

Reptiles: Though less sensitive to temperature, species like tortoises get chilled lettuce leaves tucked into their enclosures.

“This isn’t just a gimmick,” explains Chief Zoologist Yitzhak Yadid. “Each frozen treat cools the animals internally and provides mental stimulation. They must work a little to access their favourite flavours.”

Environmental enrichment: mental and physical benefits

More than mere cooling, the initiative is part of a structured enrichment program. The team at Bioparco di Roma believes that positive reinforcement and engaging puzzles play a vital role in animal well-being, especially when summer demands extra care:

Training for medical handling: Animals learn to approach custom feeding stations, so they can be examined more easily during routine check-ups.

Foraging simulations: Frozen treats are hidden in smart dispensers, prompting natural hunting or scavenging behaviours.

Interactive devices: Water hoses and misting fans are introduced alongside the ice treats, encouraging animals to explore and avoid overheating.

Seasonal menu changes: As temperatures fluctuate, fruits and ingredients rotate to maintain novelty and nutrition balance.

“They quickly associate ice with a positive experience,” adds Yadid. “It builds trust and reduces stress, which is especially important in extreme weather.”

A unique Ferragosto experience for families

Italy’s mid-August holiday, Ferragosto, is a time for family outings and lazy beach days. At the Bioparco, this year’s celebrations promise a memorable twist: visitors can witness the distribution of giant watermelon halves to giraffes, zebras and even playful lemurs. Here’s what you can expect:

Watermelon viewing slots: Scheduled showtimes allow families to gather safely and watch exotic animals munch on fresh melon slices.

Children’s workshops: Kids can decorate their own ice pop moulds with fruit decals before enjoying a cool treat.

Nutrition talks: Short, interactive sessions with keepers explain why hydration and diet are as vital for animals as they are for us.

Behind-the-scenes tours: A limited number of guests gain access to staff areas to see how ice treats are prepared in the zoo’s dedicated kitchen.

“We want Ferragosto at Bioparco to be both fun and educational,” says the zoo’s guest relations manager. “It’s a chance for families to connect with wildlife and understand the challenges of caring for animals in extreme temperatures.”

Wellness tips for a cool zoo visit

To make the most of a summer day at the Bioparco, Daisy recommends these savvy strategies:

Timing is everything: Arrive early in the morning, when temperatures are milder and the animals are most active.

Hydration on the go: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill at the park’s hydration stations. Treat yourself to a fresh fruit sorbet at the café.

Shade and rest: Follow shaded paths, and settle in near misting fans or under palm trees for a quick cool-down.

Dress light: Opt for breathable fabrics, sun hats and UV-protective swimwear for little ones, ensuring comfort for the whole family.

Support conservation: Consider “adopting” an animal through the zoo’s membership program to fund future wellbeing initiatives.

With these new cooling rituals, the Bioparco di Roma demonstrates that even in peak summer heat, creativity and compassion can transform a simple zoo visit into a refreshing and enlightening adventure. Princess-Daisy.co.uk invites you to experience Ferragosto like never before, where every scoop of ice pop and slice of watermelon celebrates the joy of summertime—and the remarkable bond between humans and wildlife.