WHILE the rest of the region baked in the sweltering heatwave yesterday one visitor attraction guaranteed a fall of snow.

To the delight of the penguins, seals and otters at the Scarborough Sea Life and Marine Sanctuary their home was transformed into a winter wonderland.

"We want to be certain that the penguins and otters are going to be comfortable in the soaring temperatures, so we have hired a snow machine and two tonnes of ice," said sanctuary manager Iain Hawkins.

Now the seven Humboldt penguins, along with otters Cherry and Eric, are able to keep their cool playing with the ice.

"The seals have also been given some large ice blocks in their pools keeping them relaxed and refreshed in the recent temperatures," said Mr Hawkins.

"As well as providing an amusing spectacle for visitors, there is a serious side to the icy treat. The otters, penguins and seals are intelligent creatures and they respond well to being given different things to interact and play with.

"We are always looking for different ideas to help keep them stimulated and to improve their environment."