Terra Natura Benidorm Implements Specialized Cooling Diets for Animals During Summer Heat

Terra Natura Benidorm has launched a summer protocol featuring species-specific frozen treats to help animals regulate body temperature during high-heat episodes. According to the park, these frozen blocks combine nutritional requirements with environmental enrichment to stimulate natural behaviors and maintain appetite in over 150 species.

Customized Frozen Nutrition by Species

The park’s keepers prepare daily frozen blocks tailored to the dietary needs of different animals. For Asian elephants, the treats consist of frozen fruits and vegetables, including watermelon, apple, melon, cucumber, and carrot. In contrast, dholes (Asian wild dogs) receive meat-based frozen treats to align with their carnivorous diets, as reported by Terra Natura Benidorm.

Support for Lactating Rhinoceroses and Calves

The protocol specifically supports Shiwa, a female Indian rhinoceros, and her calf, Brutus. According to the park, Brutus is the third Indian rhinoceros born at Terra Natura Benidorm. Shiwa receives fruit and vegetable-based frozen treats to aid hydration and supplement her nutrition during the lactation period, while Brutus engages with these enrichment routines as part of his daily care.

The Role of Environmental Enrichment in Animal Welfare

The use of frozen foods serves two primary functions beyond cooling. First, it helps animals maintain their appetite when extreme heat typically suppresses feeding. Second, it acts as a tool for environmental enrichment. By requiring animals to manipulate the ice blocks to reach their food, the park stimulates their senses and encourages species-specific exploration and foraging behaviors.

Comprehensive Summer Heat Mitigation Strategies

The frozen diet is one component of a broader summer management plan. Terra Natura Benidorm states that its full protocol includes:

• Reinforcement of water spraying and irrigation systems.
• Expansion of shaded and high-humidity zones.
• Continuous health monitoring by the veterinary and care teams.

These measures are part of the park’s strategic fauna plan, which focuses on the care of vulnerable and endangered species through a concept called “zooinmersión,” where vegetation hides barriers to create a seamless transition between recreated ecosystems.

Quick Reference: Species-Specific Cooling Treats