In the heat wave, even animals at the National Zoo get popsicles, air conditioning

Heat wave hits National Zoo in DC

WASHINGTON — As the eastern U.S. swelters under intense heat, even animals at the zoo are turning to popsicles and air conditioning.

At the National Zoo in Washington, pandas and other animals get homemade frozen fruit popsicles to help stay cool.

Zoo spokeswoman Karin Korpowski-Gallo said most animals also have access to air-conditioned indoor enclosures. The others have shady spots where they can rest.

Amanda Bania, the zoo’s great ape keeper, said apes in captivity are accustomed to having access to air conditioning — even species that hail from the tropics.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Washington until 11 p.m. Temperatures are expected to teeter around 100 degrees.