7 Weird Ways Animals Cool Off

Not all animals have the ability to sweat like human beings, so they have to find other ways to cool their bodies down in warm climates. Many species have evolved to beat the heat, some ways are stranger than others!

The hotter the weather, the more likely we are to sweat. But, not all animals are equipped with sweat glands. Mammals are the only ones capable of sweating. However, some mammals only use these secret-sweat weapons from gripping in the heat.

Other animals, like reptiles, birds, and amphibians, have had to figure out other ways to cool their bodies down. Check out the list below to see how some animals chill out.

1. Mud Baths

We’ve all heard of pigs liking mud. But, this is not just for fun! Pigs rely on mud to keep themselves cool in warm climates. A few rolls in their closest mud patch, and they can keep the hot rays of the sun off of their skin. Also, when the mud dries, it can act as a bug repellent.

2. Bleed

Hippos secrete a pinkish-red sweat that keeps them cool in the African heat! While people are still unsure whether or not it is blood, it certainly looks like it! This liquid acts similarly to sweat, keeping them cool and creating a barrier from bugs.

3. Avoid Sand

All of us have run through the hot sand at the beach. This sand proves too hot for desert animals as well! Some agamas tiptoe across the sand to avoid the heat on their feet. But, when things get way too hot, you can find them buried under the sand, cooling down.

4. Lick it Off

Kangaroos are mammals, so they do have sweat glands. However, the Australian heat can sometimes to too much for the marsupials. So, they lick their forepaws. This area of their body contains concentrated blood vessels. When their salvia evaporates, it drops the temperature in their blood and cools them down.

5. Hibernate

Hibernation is not just reserved for cold-weather animals. This long-term sleep can also get some creatures through extreme heat. Snails, which sometimes appear shriveled in the hot weather, are typically just in a state of sleep. This gets them through the dry months. Reptiles, lungfish, and amphibians are known to use this technique as well!

6. Say Cheese!

No, the alligators sitting on the bank of the swamp with their mouths open aren’t smiling for the camera. They are trying to cool off. Similar to a dog panting, alligators and crocodiles open their mouths to chill their bodies. This facial expression also communicates with other crocs and, if being done underwater, can act as a fishing net.

7. Urination

You read that right! Some animals, typically birds, turn to their bladder to cool down. Usually, long-legged birds will employ their bodily functions to help bring their body to a better temperature in the heat.

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