Animals at the Shanghai Wild Animal Park are staying cool during the heat wave.

Bears, lions, elephants and spotted dear were crowding the park's pools most of the day. Even the zebras and antelopes from South Africa were hiding under the shade of trees or roofs.

Giant pandas have been given care fit for an emperor. They have been provided deluxe rooms equipped with both fans and air conditioners. They sleep most of the day and wake only for meals.

Ice blocks have become extremely popular with the park's animals.

Daily ice consumption by the animals has exceeded 6 tons since late last month, according to Su Feilong, the park's spokesman.

"Although our own ice making workshop is at full capacity, we have to buy more to keep the animals cool," he said.

He said most ice blocks are put in the dormitories to lower the temperature. Animals have been leaning against or sitting on top of the ice blocks.

The animals even have a special diet to beat the heat.

Iced fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons, apples and bananas are being given to the beasts frequently.

Su said: "More vitamin- and water-rich diets help strengthen the animals against the heat."

(Shanghai Daily July 6, 2005)