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Animals at the Antalya Natural Life Park are being given frozen fruit treats and access to cooling facilities as temperatures in the southern Turkish resort city reached 40 degrees Celsius, park officials said.
The park, one of Türkiye's largest zoological facilities, is home to nearly 1,500 animals from 115 species. As summer temperatures rise, caretakers have introduced a range of measures to reduce heat stress and ensure the animals' welfare.
Keepers prepare low-calorie frozen fruit treats tailored to the dietary requirements of different species. Bears, monkeys and lemurs are among the animals receiving the frozen snacks, which are made from seasonal fruits including watermelon, melon, strawberries and grapes. Carnivorous species are provided with frozen meat as part of their summer feeding program.
Visitors have been watching the park's family of seven brown bears cool off in pools before enjoying the frozen fruit treats. During the hottest hours of the day, the bears retreat to shaded areas and indoor shelters.
Lemurs have also attracted attention as they consume popsicle-style frozen fruit treats, while other animals receive chilled fruit as part of their seasonal diets.
In addition to modifying feeding routines, the park has activated misting systems and increased access to shaded areas and pools to help animals cope with the extreme heat.
Aygul Arsun, director of the Antalya Natural Life Park, said the facility was designed to support animal welfare during the region's hot summers.
"Our priority is to prevent heat stress in the animals," Arsun said. "We adjust their diets during the summer by increasing water-rich fruits and vegetables. Frozen food not only helps them cool down but also provides enrichment by encouraging natural feeding behaviors."
The 650-acre park, situated among dense pine forests and crossed by a natural stream, benefits from natural features that help moderate temperatures, according to park officials.
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