People — and animals — can expect a hot one today as the National Weather Service predicts Des Moines' heat index could reach 105°.
Driving the news
At the Blank Park Zoo, cooling protocols are in place to ensure all the critters are comfortable, spokesperson Ryan Bickel tells Axios.
What's happening:
Keepers add sprinklers to exhibits to help cool them down. Penguins and otters get 'fishsicles' and the big cats get 'bloodsicles.' Heat-intolerant animals like snow leopards and red pandas have access to air conditioning.
The intrigue
The zoo's desert-friendly bactrian camels shed their fur last month. While they may be bald, the process helps them stay cool, Bickel says.
