Animals at the Houston Zoo enjoyed a rare treat last week when a snowstorm swept through Texas, capturing the attention of viewers with adorable footage of animals playing in the snow.
Last week, animals at the Houston Zoo were treated to a rare and delightful frosty experience when a snowstorm swept through Texas . Adorable video footage captured an Asian elephant gracefully trotting through the snow, while a North American river otter gleefully slid across icy terrain. Nearby, sea lions seemed unfazed by the cold, playfully splashing in their temperature-controlled pool as snowflakes drifted down around them.
For Houston residents, snowfall is a relatively uncommon occurrence. Historical records from the National Weather Service indicate that Houston has experienced snow accumulations of more than an inch on only 11 occasions since 1920. The city's most significant snowfall occurred in 1895, when a staggering 20 inches fell, bringing the city to a standstill in a once-in-a-lifetime event. More recently, Houston witnessed a light dusting of snow in February 2021 during a catastrophic winter storm that paralyzed much of the state. This year's snowfall was lighter, with accumulations of 2 to 4 inches reported in various parts of Southeast Texas, including Jefferson, Orange, and Harris counties. The National Weather Service issued blizzard warnings for certain regions, advising against travel due to hazardous whiteout conditions. Schools, highways, and airports were temporarily closed, disrupting daily life for millions.Houston Zoo officials shared videos and images of the animals—including those from climates not accustomed to such conditions—joyfully embracing the rare snow day and the entertainment it provided. Lions made paw prints in the fresh snow, while capybaras were given a pile of snow to examine—and taste. In a post on their website, the Houston Zoo stated: 'During the weather event, a group of 66 dedicated staff members stayed at the Zoo to ensure the security of the campus and watched as animals enjoyed the snow in a fun and enriching way.' Each animal at the Houston Zoo receives specialized care tailored to their species' unique needs, ensuring their comfort during colder months. All animal buildings, barns, and night houses are equipped with heaters and designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.The snow has since melted in Houston, and the current weather forecast predicts no further snowfall for the city. Temperatures are now hovering around 44°F (7°C). Rain is expected on January 29 and 30, followed by a return to sunny skies. This wasn't the first time animals at a zoo had the opportunity to enjoy snow. In 2022, zoo animals, including bears and wallaby Bennet, had a blast when heavy snow fell in Washington, D.C
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