Three Lions Die at Tokyo Zoo; Heatstroke Suspected

Three lions at Tokyo's Tama Zoo have died, with veterinarians suspecting heatstroke as the cause amid a severe heatwave in Japan. The zoo reported that a three-year-old lioness died on July 28, followed by an 11-year-old lioness on July 31, and a 15-year-old lioness on August 2.

In mid-July, 10 out of the zoo's 16 lions began showing signs of distress, including reduced appetite and an inability to stand. Zoo staff attempted to cool the animals and administer medication, but the condition of the three lionesses worsened.

Obductions have revealed that all three deceased lions suffered from severe dehydration and multiple organ failure, according to NHK. The zoo stated that the exact cause of death will be determined once test results are available. They are taking the deaths very seriously and are continuing to treat the remaining lions. Japanese summers have been growing hotter, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in many areas for consecutive days.