Suspected heatstroke kills three lions at Japan zoo

Three female lions died at a Tokyo zoo due to suspected heat-related illness as Japan grapples with extreme summer temperatures. The lions, aged between three to fifteen years, succumbed to dehydration and multiple organ failure within a week at the Tama Zoological Park in western Tokyo. Zoo officials stated that this is the worst they have experienced, and last year also saw a similar incident, but none of the lions fell ill like this.

Miwa, Kosaka, a zoo representative, informed the BBC that such heatwaves are becoming more frequent and dangerous in Japan, with cities recording several "cruelly hot days" where temperatures exceed 40C.

Mugi, a three-year-old female lion, lost her appetite on July 19 and couldn't stand the next day. She received ventilation, water, and fluids for cooling, but ultimately passed away on July 28. Ichigo, an 11-year-old female lion, died on July 31, followed by Luena, a 15-year-old female lion, on the same day. Autopsies revealed systemic dehydration and multiple organ failure in all three lions, indicating heat stress as the cause. The causes of death are yet to be determined post-test results.

Four lions are still unwell and unable to stand, while some are showing signs of improvement. The zoo has placed them in a private enclosure with portable air-conditioners and industrial fans. Veterinary experts suggest that high humidity makes it difficult for lions to regulate body temperatures, as they primarily cool themselves through deep breathing, which is less effective in humid conditions. Additionally, a sudden spike in temperature in mid-July left the animals insufficient time to acclimatize to the heat.

Tama Zoo, which houses about 260 species of animals, has a history of breeding and exhibiting lions since 1964. Due to the heatwave, the zoo announced the suspension of its lion exhibit and lion bus service. Over 43,000 people across Japan have been hospitalized for heatstroke this summer. The government has issued heat warnings and advised residents to take measures to stay cool, including encouraging office workers to change their attire for more breathable clothing.