Three lions from a Tokyo zoo have died from suspected heatstroke and others are under treatment, a spokeswoman said, with the big cats struggling with high levels of humidity.
Since mid-July, 10 of the 16 lions in Tama Zoological Park have suffered symptoms such as “loss of appetite and decreased activity”, and three lionesses died, the zoo said in a statement yesterday.
All three lions passed away last week, it said.
“According to our veterinarian, the cause of the deaths is suspected to be heatstroke” as dehydration and multiple organ failure were observed, a spokeswoman said.
“Even though lions are thought to be resistant to heat, zoo keepers have been strengthening countermeasures to cope with Japan’s summer heat in recent years.
“But this summer, heat arrived suddenly after the rainy season was over” in late July, she said.
“We are strengthening measures against the heat (further), sprinkling water, improving ventilation and installing spot air-conditioners.”
Several lions are still being treated, she added. — AFP
