Zoo's hot on keeping animals cool

The elephants are being given lollies made from favourite fruits

A Devon zoo is taking extra care to make sure its residents do not overheat in the current soaring temperatures.

Many of the animals at Paignton Zoo are used to the hot weather but treats are being laid on to help them stay cool.

The zoo's elephants are being given giant ice lollies made with their favourite fruit and get a regular hosing down from their keepers.

The rhinos are being given mud baths and the baboons are being sprayed regularly with water.

Philip Knowling from the zoo said: "Paignton Zoo is a leafy place with lots of shade for animals and visitors alike.

"During hot weather all animals have access to indoor and outdoor shade and plenty of fresh water."

At the zoo's nearby sister attraction, Living Coasts, the seals are being given fish filled-ice blocks and the penguins can take shelter in their beach hut, made out of wooden poles and heather thatch.