Animals at a zoo in Nagano Prefecture, central Japan, have been given heaters and baths as early winter temperatures decline.

The Suzaka Zoo prepared a hot bath on Wednesday for its two capybaras, which are native to South America. Thursday marks the first day of winter on the traditional Japanese calendar.

The big rodents quickly entered the water and looked happy and relaxed.

Other steps at the facility included placing an electric stove in the enclosure for ring-tailed lemurs, which are from Madagascar.

The lemurs gathered around the stove to warm themselves.

The head of the zoo's operator, Nakazawa Yuichi, says the keepers are taking measures that match each type of animal.

He says high energy costs are a problem, but he wants the animals to stay healthy through the cold season.