When the sun and humidity soar in Tokyo, caring for animals—especially species from cold climates like polar bears and snowy owls—becomes a top priority at Ueno Zoo. Deputy Director Mikako Kaneko explains that the zoo has dedicated protocols to manage each species’ comfort and welfare. Zookeepers carry both thermometers and hygrometers to monitor temperature and humidity inside the enclosures and adjust care accordingly.
Tailored Measures for Sensitive Species
- Rotational Access: For particularly temperature-sensitive animals, the zoo runs a daily rotation. They’re let out early in the morning for a short period, after which the space is cleaned and they’re brought back indoors.
- Strict Exhibit Timings: To avoid peak heat, some animals are only visible during cooler parts of the day. For instance, Sumatran tigers are off display from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and western lowland gorillas only until around 2 p.m.
Climate Control and Cooling Infrastructure
- Polar Bears: Their enclosures feature a pool with circulating cool water, while their connected indoor space is kept at about 17 °C. Outdoor viewing hours are also restricted.
- Giant Pandas: The indoor room attached to their outdoor area is air-conditioned to approximately 25 °C, as required by their lending authority, China.
- Snowy Owls: These birds receive ample shade to escape intense sunlight, helping them regulate body temperature.
Creative Feeding Strategies
- Frozen Treats: To beat the heat, zookeepers freeze food or wrap it in ice for certain animals, even offering ice directly to some. This not only cools their mouths but helps lower their perceived air temperature and body heat too.
Continuous Observation & Adaptation
Daily behavioral monitoring is key. Staff report: “When we come to the zoo in the morning, we check how they’re moving… Continuous observation is really important… Even if the handbook says 25 °C is fine, if an animal doesn’t seem well… we adjust.”
Understanding Species-Specific Heat Tolerances
According to zoologist Nadia Nawaz, each species has distinct heat thresholds:
- Polar bears begin to experience heat stress above 20 °C,
- Goats and pandas beyond 25 °C,
- Penguins surprisingly tolerate up to 39 °C before heat stress sets in.
In Summary
Ueno Zoo employs a multi-layered approach to protect its animals from extreme heat:
- Highly individualized care using handbooks and sensitive monitoring tools.
- Controlled access and schedules minimizing heat exposure.
- Engineering solutions like climate-controlled indoor spaces and water-cooled plunge pools.
- Behavior-based flexibility, with staff adjusting conditions based on daily observations.
- Thermal innovations in feeding, such as ice-covered food to lower internal and external temperatures.
These thoughtful measures underscore the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare amid rising climate challenges.
Source:https://www.japantimes.co.jp/environment/2025/08/31/wildlife/ueno-zoo-tokyo-animals-heat/
