Animals at the Houston Zoo stay cool in the heat

HOUSTON (CBS, KYMA/KECY) - Animals at the Houston Zoo enjoyed "innovative" enrichment as temperatures warmed in Texas this spring.

Footage shared by the Houston Zoo shows some of its residents swimming, splashing, and eating icy treats in their habitats during May and June.

"These moments may look fun, but they serve a greater purpose. Each activity is a form of enrichment, a critical part of how Houston Zoo cares for the physical and mental health of all animals in its care," the zoo wrote in a press release. "These enrichment activities are carefully designed to keep the animals stimulated during the challenging summer months. Summer enrichment allows animals to exercise their natural behaviors and helps strengthen their innate instincts."

Footage shows some of the zoo's North American river otters, Asian elephants, jaguars, and giant anteaters keeping cool.