8-12-26 *INTERVIEW* Keeping the Animals Cool at the Denver Zoo with Jake Kubie

As the summer heat sets in, many of us are looking for ways to beat the heat, but have you ever wondered how our furry friends at the Denver Zoo are staying cool? In this episode, we're joined by Jake Kubie, the director of Communications for the Denver Zoo, to talk about the innovative ways they're keeping their animals comfortable in the scorching temperatures. The Denver Zoo is home to over 3,000 individual animals and 450 different species, representing every corner of the globe. With some animals hailing from hot climates, the zoo takes extra precautions to ensure their well-being. One of the key strategies is giving animals the option to choose their own temperature, allowing them to move freely between indoor and outdoor habitats. This might mean that some animals are indoors when visitors are expecting to see them, but the zoo's top priority is always the animals' safety and comfort. The zoo's Tropical Discovery Exhibit, a temperature-controlled building that's home to many of the zoo's snakes, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. This exhibit is a must-see, and Jake shares some fascinating stories about the animals that thrive in the heat, like the bighorn sheep and Asian elephants. We also hear about the creative ways the zoo keeps its animals cool, from making ice treats to providing large pools for the elephants to play in. If you're a Denver Zoo fan or just looking for ways to support your local community, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we chat with Jake about the zoo's efforts to keep its animals cool and happy, and learn more about the importance of prioritizing animal welfare.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.