Three female lions at the Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo have died of suspected heat-related illness as Japan continues to endure extreme summer temperatures.
The lions, three-year-old Mugi, 11-year-old Ichigo and 15-year-old Luena, died on 28 July, 31 July and 2 August respectively.
Autopsies have shown systemic dehydration and multiple organ failure in all three lions, suggesting that heat stress was a contributing factor, the zoo said.
Since mid-July, several lions at the Tama Zoological Park have required treatment for poor health, primarily characterised by a loss of appetite, fatigue and decreased activity.
Since mid-July, several lions at the Tama Zoological Park have required treatment for poor health
Some of the animals have recovered after being treated with IV fluids, liver support medication and vitamins, as well as water sprays and fans.
As of 3 August, three lions remain unwell and unable to stand up, with the zoo continuing to treat them.
The Tama Zoological Park is now home to 13 lions, and said it will "prioritize the health management of the four lions that have recovered or are showing signs of recovery, as well as the six lions that have been in good health from the beginning".
"They will be recuperating in a private lion enclosure equipped with spot coolers and additional industrial fans, and their exhibition will be suspended," the zoo added.
Three female lions at the Tama Zoological Park have died as Japan endures extreme summer temperatures
"This is the first time we've experienced anything like this. Last year was also hot, but none of our lions fell ill like this," Miwa, Kosaka, a zoo representative, told the BBC.
Japan's summers are getting hotter each year, with temperatures in parts of the country hitting 40C in recent weeks.
Via the BBC, more than 43,000 people across Japan have been taken into hospital for heatstroke this summer.
The Tama Zoological Park said it is taking steps to prevent further lion deaths in future summers by strengthening heat protection measures in the lions' enclosure and habitat.
Images courtesy of Tama Zoological Park
