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Japan: Three lions die at Tokyo zoo from suspected heatstroke amid 'cruelly hot' summer

From CBS News · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • Three lionesses have died at Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park, suspected to be from heatstroke amid a severe heatwave in Japan.
  • Several other lions at the park have shown symptoms of heat distress, including loss of appetite and decreased activity.
  • The zoo is implementing enhanced heat countermeasures, including water sprays, fans, and improved ventilation, while also treating the affected animals.

Japan is experiencing an exceptionally hot summer, with temperatures soaring and humidity levels high, leading to tragic consequences at the Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo. Three lionesses have died, with heatstroke suspected as the cause, and several other big cats are currently receiving treatment.

According to our veterinarian, the cause of the deaths is suspected to be heatstroke because dehydration and multiple organ failure were observed.

— Zoo spokeswomanExplaining the suspected cause of death for the lionesses.

The affected lions began showing symptoms such as loss of appetite and reduced activity in mid-July. The three deceased lionesses were identified as Mugi, a 3-year-old female who died on Tuesday; Ichigo, an 11-year-old female who died three days later; and Luena, a 15-year-old female who died on Sunday. A zoo spokeswoman explained that dehydration and multiple organ failure were observed, pointing towards heatstroke as the likely cause of death.

While lions are generally considered heat-resistant, the combination of extreme temperatures and high humidity in Japan presents a unique challenge, differing from the dry heat found in their native African habitats. Zookeepers have been intensifying heat countermeasures in recent years, but the sudden onset of extreme heat after the rainy season ended in late July overwhelmed existing measures.

Even though lions are thought to be resistant to heat, zookeepers have been strengthening countermeasures to cope with Japan's summer heat in recent years. Heat here comes with high humidity; that is different from heat with dry air in Africa.

— Zoo spokeswomanHighlighting the challenges posed by Japan's humid heat compared to African climates.

The zoo has closed the lion enclosure to the public and is implementing further measures, including increased water spraying, improved ventilation, and the installation of spot air conditioners. Intravenous fluids and medication are being administered to the sick lions. This situation occurs against a backdrop of widespread heat-related illnesses across Japan, with thousands hospitalized and numerous deaths reported due to the extreme weather.

We are strengthening measures against the heat (further), sprinkling water, improving ventilation and installing spot air conditioners.

— Zoo spokeswomanDescribing the enhanced measures being taken to protect the remaining lions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CBS News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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