Zoo Takes Steps Keep Animals Cool - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

On day two of the extreme heat warning, Potter Park Zoo in Lansing is taking steps to keep its residents healthy and safe.  

There are fewer people, and a few new signs at the zoo.  The extremely hot and humid weather has the zoo's veterinarian giving animals from the Arctic a choice. 

"We will give them either access to air conditioned areas, we may give them a sprinkler, or a water mister, or we may give them ice treats" says veterinarian Dr. Tara Harrison. 

During this heat spell, the zoo has shut down three of its exhibits, including the parakeets from Australia.

The zoo says when the heat index rises 95 degrees or higher, its safer for the animals. Pony and camel rides are also cancelled. 

"Even though camels are used to it, with the hotter temperatures, its just making them work and then expand more energy when its already hot and giving rides," Harrison says. "We choose not to do that. " 

The zoo says high temperatures also keep attendance down. 

For those who don't like crowds, it's a good time to pay a visit.  

"For the people that do come out to the zoo, we do have some misters just for the people running so you can cool down," says Harrison.