Lincoln Children’s Zoo prepares for heat wave

Some of the animals at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo are no strangers to the heat, but for those who are used to a colder climate, the zoo has something tailored to them

“All the animals have air conditioning access especially the red pandas, the snow leopards, so the animals are pretty spoiled here at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo,” John  Chappo said.

Chappo says when it gets too hot they also make fruit popsicle’s for the herbivores and even blood pops for the carnivorous animals.

He said that they actually start to watch out for heat issues a lot sooner than you’d think.

“Every species has a different temperature so that’s why we are just constantly on top of the situation for every animal you know it starts getting over 85, we start waving up the red flags everywhere to make sure everything is taken care of,” Chappo said. 

Chappo says he hopes a new splash pad feature will encourage visitors to come explore.

It just opened up a couple of days ago.

“They were just complaining about being hot and sweaty so this is the perfect option for them right now,” Andrea Albino said. 

It’s not just the zoo taking precautions in the heat.

If you need a place to go. The Belmont recreation center, will remain open until 8 p.m.  Wednesday through Friday.

Most Lincoln city library branches are open until 8 p.m.

Aging partners has a limited number of fans on a first–come–first–served basis to adults 60 and older.

They’re located 1005 O street.

The program also accepts fan donations.