Beating the Heat: Harbor Seals Take the Plunge

As heat settled on Lincoln Park this past week, Lincoln Park Zoo's visitors were likely envying the harbor seals at Kovler Sea Lion Pool.

"These marine mammals spend their days in the water, buffered from the swelter above as they glide gracefully beneath the surface," Zoo President Kevin Bell said, in a note. "It sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?"

But the seals aren’t the only animals to cool off with a splash. Sichuan takins, trumpeter swans, North American river otters and polar bear Anana are among those dipping into pools in their exhibits.

"Sometimes a little mud enters the mix as well, as seen with the cool coatings on our endangered black rhinoceroses and red river hogs," Bell continued. "Visitors even join the fun, with kids drenching themselves in the water play area in front of the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo."

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Obviously mud wallows and pools are just one way to help animals stay cool in hot weather.

Many species choose to beat the heat the easy way: by remaining inside in sheltered exhibits. This is always an option for the wildlife in the zoo's care. No animal is ever forced to stay outside, Bell stresses.

"Our animal care experts are also extra watchful in hot weather, carefully monitoring each animal for changes in behavior or signs of stress," he says.

"Keepers can even have a bit of fun with the rising temperatures, incorporating chilled treats and blocks of ice into daily enrichment schedules."