Mud, glorious mud. Black rhino cools down at Paignton Zoo

As temperatures soar, one black rhino has found his own way of cooling off – by turning himself into a red rhino.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park’s newest arrival, rare black rhino Manyara, enjoyed a wallow in the red Devon mud, going from a black rhino to a red rhino in the process. The one tonne animal splashed and rolled, emerging caked in bright red mud.

Paignton Zoo spokesperson Phil Knowling said: “During hot weather animals have access to indoor and outdoor shade and fresh water. Most zoo animals come from warmer climates and are very adaptable to our weather variations. Some animals get extra treats to help them keep cool – ice blocks with their favourite foods or fruit juices in them; baboons get water sprays.

“The penguins at Living Coasts – some of which come from Africa – have pools and sprays, too – plus their very own beach hut on Penguin Beach – a shade made out of wooden poles and heather thatch!”

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