Animals beat the heat at Australian Reptile Park

Extreme weather conditions across NSW yesterday (8th January) meant keepers had to be creative when providing relief for the animals at the Australian Reptile Park.

The Parks's New Caledonian giant gecko received a cool fruit smoothie, the Indian star tortoises were sprayed with water and the turtles enjoyed the prawn ice blocks they were given. In addition, the attraction's giant Galapagos tortoise, Hugo loved the warm weather because it meant he got a spray with the hose and a feast of his favourite food, watermelon.

The Park's Tasmanian devils joeys loved their bloodsticles and young female Sassy, even went for swim before playing tug-o-war with the hose! Meanwhile, the Park's tiny ring tail possums enjoyed a treat with chilled strawberry and Marley, our Eclectus parrot munched on fresh fruit in a pinecone.

Reptiles Supervisor, Julie Mendezona explained "animals can easily overheat in temperatures like today so it's essential that we cool the animals and it allowed the keepers to have a bit of fun too. It also provided us the opportunity to give some of the animals some enrichment activities as it's important that they use their natural instincts especially in captivity."

For more information go to www.reptilepark.com.au

3rd February 2011 - TARONGA ZOO ANIMALS BEAT THE HEAT

28th July 2010 - WILDLIFE ARK TO BE CREATED IN HUNTER VALLEY

5th October 2009 - AUSTRALIAN REPTILE PARK CELEBRATES 60 YEARS