As summer temperatures soar in Rostock, reaching around 30 degrees Celsius, the giant Galapagos tortoises at Rostock Zoo are finding respite through a unique cooling method. Known for their sedentary lifestyle, with some species spending up to 16 hours a day resting, these colossal reptiles are being doused with refreshing cold water to help them manage the intense heat.
The Galapagos tortoises, which can measure up to 120 centimeters in length and weigh as much as 300 kilograms, are among the heaviest land tortoises on the planet. Their impressive lifespan of approximately 150 years further underscores their remarkable nature.
To ensure their well-being during the scorching summer months, Rostock Zoo has equipped the tortoises’ expansive outdoor enclosures with water sprinklers. These cooling systems are designed to provide the reptiles with much-needed relief from the high temperatures, helping them stay comfortable in their large, outdoor habitat.