Even lions can't bear the heat: three lionesses die at zoo
The extreme heat wave in Japan has also taken a toll on wildlife: three lionesses died at Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo, apparently from heatstroke. The lionesses Mogi (3), Ichigo (11), and Luana (15) died between July 28 and August 2. The lion enclosure was closed to visitors, and 10 of the 16 lions required medical treatment. The zoo attributes the deaths to heat stress, but the final cause will be determined by tests.
The extreme heat wave hitting Japan has also taken a toll on wildlife: three lionesses died at Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo after showing symptoms suggestive of heatstroke. The first lioness, Mogi, aged three, born at the zoo in September 2022, began showing signs of weakness on July 19 and died on July 28. Another lioness, Ichigo, aged 11, died on July 31, and Luana, aged 15, died on August 2. Pathological tests found signs of general dehydration and multi-organ failure in all three, indicating heat stress as a significant factor, but the final cause will only be determined after tests are completed. Of the 16 lions at the facility—five males and eleven females—10 lions at some point required medical treatment: eight females and two males. Some deteriorated to a serious condition, including inability to stand and even loss of consciousness. Teams treated them by cooling the body with water spray, fans, fluid infusions, and medication. The lion enclosure was closed to visitors as early as July 23, and the safari bus service was also halted. As of August 3, three lions are still in poor condition and unable to stand. They are receiving fluid infusions, liver-support medication, vitamins, and treatment for pressure sores. The zoo explained that summer in Japan differs from that in Africa due to high humidity, so they are strengthening protective measures. The incident occurs against a backdrop of an extreme heat wave in Japan, with temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the country. Between July 20 and 26, nearly 18,600 people were hospitalized due to heat-related injuries, and 45 died. Scientists warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme heat waves.