Three female lions have died of suspected heat-related illness at Tama Zoological Park in western Tokyo, marking the first time the facility has lost multiple lions to extreme heat, according to the metropolitan government.
Mugi, Ichigo and Luena — aged three, 11 and 15 — died between 28 July and 2 August. Autopsies revealed all three suffered dehydration and multiple organ failure, consistent with prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. Nearby Hachioji recorded average highs of 35.2C in late July. Symptoms including loss of appetite and reduced activity first appeared on 18 July among the park's 16 lions; three remain in poor health and are receiving treatment, while four others have shown signs of recovery.
The zoo has suspended its lion exhibit and lion bus service — a tourist attraction operating since 1964 — until further notice. No similar cases have been reported at other Tokyo metropolitan zoos.