Delhi Zoo Residents Fight Scorching Heatwave with Showers and Shade

New Delhi: As the mercury soared past 45°C in the nation’s capital on Monday, animals at the National Zoological Park (better known as the Delhi Zoo) found themselves seeking relief in any way they could. With scorching sunlight beating down on the city, zookeepers swung into action to help their non-human residents stay cool.

The elephants were seen sprawled comfortably in shaded enclosures, basking under fine water mists sprayed by keepers. According to zoo staff, the water tends to linger in the folds of an elephant’s skin and coarse hair, offering prolonged relief much like natural perspiration. Their oversized ears act as natural fans, further helped the animals regulate body temperature as the heat peaked.

Not far from the elephants, a herd of Sambar deer gathered eagerly around sprinkler systems installed in their enclosure. The deer, who are naturally drawn to water, were quick to drink and soak themselves. While the scene was more chaotic than graceful, their respite was unmistakable. Sambar deer typically reside near rivers and wetlands in the wild, making the sprinkler setup a vital substitute in these dry, punishing conditions.

Even some of the zoo’s visitors found momentary reprieve near the misting zones, with children and adults alike enjoying brief respites under the spray.

Meteorological officials have issued warnings for continued high temperatures in Delhi for the remainder of the week. With heatwaves growing more intense and frequent across northern India, the situation highlights the increasing strain on urban infrastructure (including zoos) and the urgent need for climate-resilient solutions for both people and animals.