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MN Zoo's moose get waterbeds for research

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APPLE VALLEY, Minn. (AP) -- The moose at the Minnesota Zoo are now resting on waterbeds as part of a new research project.

Zoo conservation biologist Dr. Nick McCann says the rubber mats topped with straw may not allow heat to be conducted away from their bodies to the ground below.

He is conducting a study on the impact of heat stress on the animals. McCann says he also wants to determine if the waterbed will be better at keeping the moose cool. He says water is an excellent conductor of heat.

Two of the zoo's five holding area stalls were outfitted with waterbeds.

KARE-TV reports preliminary results will be ready by this winter.

The beds were donated by Wisconsin-based Advanced Comfort Technology Inc., which manufactures cow waterbeds.