3 lions at western Tokyo zoo die of suspected heat-related causes

Three lions at a zoo in Tokyo have died since late July of suspected heat-related causes amid sweltering summer temperatures, the metropolitan government said Monday.

The three lions were among 16 in captivity at Tama Zoological Park in Hino in western Tokyo. They were found to have suffered from severe dehydration and multiple organ failure.

As other lions also began showing signs of illness, the park has suspended its lion exhibit since July 23.

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According to the metropolitan government, two of the lions showed symptoms such as loss of appetite and treatment was initiated on July 18.

Soon after, signs of illness began to appear in other lions, with a total of 10 requiring treatment by July 22.

Zoo staff tried using fans, spraying water, and administering medication, but the three lions did not recover and died. /dl