Rescued elephants and bears beat heat at wildlife SOS centres

As temperatures soar above 40°C across India, Wildlife SOS has stepped up its efforts to ensure the well-being of resident elephants and sloth bears. With summer in full swing, the Elephant Hospital Campus (EHC), Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC), Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF), Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Facility (BBRC), and Van Vihar Bear Rescue Facility (VVBRF) are well-prepared to combat the heat.

"Our primary aim with these summer management measures is to benefit the elephants and bears under our care. We have provided sufficient shade, water, and dietary enhancements to ensure their comfort and health," stated Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder & CEO of Wildlife SOS.

At EHC and ECCC, enclosures are equipped with sprinklers to maintain a cool environment. Caregivers meticulously plough and wet the ground, allowing elephants to indulge in mud baths to protect their skin from the sun and provide a cool surface to walk on. Water-rich fruits like watermelon, papaya, cucumber, and bottle gourd, along with fresh green fodder like chari (sorghum), have been included in their diets to keep them hydrated.

Similarly, at ABRF and VVBRF, each den is fitted with air coolers for relief, while sprinklers operate at regular intervals to cool the ground and create comfortable zones inside the enclosures. Bears also have access to water pools for cooling off, with enclosures for geriatric bears covered with green agronets to provide shade.

"Our veterinarians and caregivers work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of our rescued animals. It's heartwarming to see them thriving in these conditions while the country grapples with rising temperatures," commented Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS.

Even at BBRC, where temperatures are moderate, precautionary measures are in place to protect resident sloth bears. Water-rich fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, and sun melon are provided to keep them hydrated. Additionally, bears enjoy special summer treats in the form of ice popsicles made from seasonal fruits frozen in honey-infused milk, keeping them cool throughout the day.