Animal keepers in zoos in east China are helping their dwellers to stay cool during hot summer days of a scorching heat wave. 

Keepers are using ice blocks and cold water to cool down the overheated animals in the zoo of Qingdao, Shandong Province. The zoo is feeding fresh fruits and vegetables to the animals. Sunshades are set-up to help the animals cool off. 

At Chongqing Zoo, home to about 200 species of animals, temperatures nearly reached 35 Celsius degrees (95 Fahrenheit) by Tuesday morning, prompting keepers to take emergency measures to cool down their residents. 

Zookeepers have set up an air-conditioner inside the penguins’ room to cool them down. Ice bags are thrown into their pool so the penguins could enjoy an icy bath.

The Shanghai zoo has also taken other measures to keep animals cool, including installation of air conditioners inside different areas.

The zoo has been on high alert against any possible health issues among the animals. 

A large-scale heat wave continues to grip most regions in the eastern part of northwest China, and the Yellow River-Huai River region of central and east China, and northern areas of south China. The temperatures in some areas may reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit).

Photos: Special treat to cool off animals in China