Our veterinary team is supplying vitamin C and heating systems have been activated for the most vulnerable species.
Terra Natura Benidorm is preparing to face the low temperatures that usually starts at this time of the year. The team of veterinarians and zookeepers has already start to give special care to the species most sensitive to protect them from respiratory diseases. This protocol has been activated in early November and will remain operational until March.
The objective of the action is to ensure animal welfare during the coldest months of the year. The actions developed include the reinforcement and variation of the diet of mammals that increases the calories consumed between 10% and 20% more than the rest of the year.
In parallel, there is an extra supply of vitamins for the population of primates in the park. The administration of vitamins takes place with special gummies containing vitamin C, which stimulates natural defences and favours health.
Siamang families, capuchin monkeys, white-handed gibbons, squirrel monkeys or marmosets, among other primate species, accept these jellybeans quite well, which contribute to their well-being. In addition, the preparation of hot porridge is added on the coldest days.
Likewise, Terra Natura Benidorm has indoor heated shelters, radiators and thermal tiles that keep the heat in the shelters. The inside temperature is modified depending the outside weather.
The flying foxes have an outdoor area heated with infrared lamps and the crocodiles have an air heating system that ensures a constant temperature between 23º and 30º as these animals depend on the sources of external heat to regulate their body temperature.
In general, reptiles and primates are two of the groups most sensitive to cold and we must take special consideration at this time. However, armadillos and macaws, among other species, also receive special attention.
On the contrary, lions and tigers adapt perfectly to the cold temperatures and it is not necessary to implement any specific action against the cold. Elephants prefer warm weather but they are able to retain heat in their body even when it is cold.
Within the winter prevention protocol, when a zookeeper has a cold or suspects it has it, to avoid infection, gloves and masks are used when they get close to primates.