DAVIE, Fla. — As temperatures dropped across South Florida, staff at Flamingo Gardens shifted into cold-weather mode to keep their animals warm.

Wildlife curator Laura Wyatt gave Local 10 News an exclusive tour at how the sanctuary prepares for chilly nights, from heaters and blankets to more than 30 heat lamps placed throughout the grounds.

Some animals are moved indoors overnight, while others stay outside with added protection from the cold.

“Our first thought is always, how many heat lamps do we have?” said Wyatt. “How many light bulbs do we have? How many space heaters do we have?”

Wyatt says planning for the change in temperature is like a hurricane plan -- there are proactive measures already in place.

“We make sure we have all the things prepared and ready to go so we can get it done as quickly as possible; get the animals happy and take care of them.” she said.

The macaws at Flamingo Gardens only need a heat lamp and shutters to block the wind.

“You see how they have their beaks in their feathers and their feet up in their feathers -- that helps keep them naturally warm,” Wyatt said.

For the handful of cats, the cold isn’t as much of a concern.

“It’s not as big of a deal for them, but we still provide options,” Wyatt said.

Some other animals are kept indoors, away from harsh winds and on heating pads.

“Our Florida box turtle who is usually on exhibit, but we decided to bring him in because he’s cold-blooded,” Wyatt said.

Also joining Zippie inside are a possum, tortoise and several birds with conditions that make them more susceptible to the cold.

One 20-year-old Florida bird of prey is being kept warm indoors.

“She’s a geriatric patient -- she’s over 20 years old -- so we want to keep her warm and keep an eye on her,” Wyatt said.

Wyatt said even with the cold weather hitting Florida, there isn’t much cause for concern.

“They live in Florida. They can tolerate the cold,” she said. “We’re fortunate in that way.”

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