How Exotic Animals are Protected from the Cold

Terra Natura Benidorm nature park has already activated its annual cold prevention protocol to ensure the well-being of the park's most vulnerable species during the coldest months of the year. This set of measures, which will extend until March, varies according to the needs of each type of animal, especially concerning the low night temperatures.

Among the main strategies of the protocol, the diet of mammals has been reinforced with a 20% increase in caloric intake. This increase ensures that the animals have the necessary energy to maintain an adequate body temperature against the cold. Additionally, vitamin C supplements are being administered to strengthen their immune system and prevent respiratory diseases. This measure is particularly crucial for small primates such as marmosets, capuchin monkeys, and gibbons, who receive the vitamin in the form of special gummies, a formula designed to naturally stimulate their defences. During the coldest days, caregivers prepare warm porridge for these primates, providing them with extra warmth and energy.

To ensure a comfortable environment, especially when temperatures drop at night, Terra Natura Benidorm has also activated specific heating systems in the indoor shelters of the different species. These systems include air heating for animals such as flying foxes and species in the volcano area, radiators for siamangs, gibbons, rhinoceroses, capuchin monkeys, and macaws, thermal tiles for pythons and tortoises, and heat lamps for sloths and marmosets. Each installation is constantly monitored and adjusted according to external conditions, maximising both animal comfort and energy efficiency.

The care of reptiles during winter is a priority, as being poikilothermic, they depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. The spaces for snakes and lizards have been equipped with special ultraviolet (UVB) light bulbs, essential for activating vitamin D synthesis in their skin. Additionally, species such as chameleons have areas with different temperature gradients, allowing them to move between warm (30-35°C) and cool (20-25°C) zones according to their needs.

"Preventive care during winter not only ensures the health of our most vulnerable species but also reinforces our commitment to excellence in animal management and care," explains the park's veterinary team. This protocol not only protects resident species but also provides an opportunity to educate visitors about the importance of animal care during the colder seasons.