Prague zoo keeps polar bears cool with tons of ice as another European summer heatwave hits

Keepers at Prague Zoo deployed tons of ice on Thursday, offering much-needed relief to its animal residents as Europe grappled with yet another scorching heatwave. Polar bears Aleut and Gregor wasted no time, immediately rolling in beds of ice cubes after entering their outdoor enclosure.The 16-year-old twins, born in Nuremberg, Germany, appeared to revel in the icy treat, designed to keep them cool amid extreme temperatures forecast to reach 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) later in the day. Polar bears, who were born in Nuremberg, Germany, 16 years ago and have adapted to the European climate, enjoy the ice in their enclosure (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)Other animals that have benefited from the provision of ice to keep cool in previous years include otters, elephants and parrots (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)Zoo spokesperson Filip Mašek noted, "The bears cool off with it and at the same time it's an enrichment of their life in the zoo."The zoo initiated its ice provision program for some animals two years ago, a direct response to climate change and the escalating frequency of extreme temperature days. While the polar bears, adapted to the European climate, were among the most enthusiastic beneficiaries, other animals like otters, elephants, and parrots have also received ice in previous years.While ice was typically planned for July and August, the hottest months, an early heatwave saw the Czech Republic record its hottest day ever on June 28, at 41.9 C (107.4 F). "The weather keeps surprising us," Mašek stated, adding, "We’ve been taught a lesson," indicating ice would be ready sooner next year.Beyond ice, the zoo also utilizes shade, inner enclosures, and various pools to keep animals cool, with gorillas previously receiving ice blocks containing frozen fruits.