As much of Australia prepares to endure soaring temperatures this long weekend, the elephants at Taronga Zoo have found their refreshing escape: a cooling shower under their dedicated waterfall.
Recent footage shows five-year-old Asian elephant Luk Chai and his mother, Thong Dee, enjoying a splash under the sun.
According to zookeepers, the pair wasted no time diving into the pool this week, with temperatures nearing 30°C.
“On hot days, the elephants typically head straight for the water, submerging themselves, rolling around, and even somersaulting,” explained Elephant Keeper Ian Gleichman. “The young ones love to play and dunk each other—it’s like their own pool party,” he added.
Bathing is essential for elephants, especially in the heat. In the wild, they frequently cool off in rivers, lakes, or mud, often spraying water over themselves using their trunks.
“At Taronga, we’re lucky to have two excellent pool areas for our elephants, and the waterfall is always a favorite,” Gleichman said. “The running water not only helps lower their body temperature but also provides a soothing sensation. Sometimes, they’ll just relax with their legs in the air.”
The cooling effect of water is enhanced by elephants’ unique skin, which retains moisture, keeping them comfortable long after they leave the water.
Meanwhile, Australians face a weekend of extreme weather. Senior Meteorologist Craig Burke from the Bureau of Meteorology described a heatwave gripping Western Australia, with temperatures in the north nearing 50°C.
“The Northern Territory will also see above-average heat stretching into central Australia, while southeast Queensland braces for heavy rains, expected to ease by Sunday,” Burke shared.
“In New South Wales, warm conditions and potential showers may develop with the arrival of a trough system.”
Overall, it’s set to be a sweltering weekend across much of the country, with relief anticipated next week.
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