Three lions at a Tokyo zoo have died from suspected heatstroke, and several others are undergoing treatment, a spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday. The big cats are reportedly struggling with Japan's high levels of humidity.
The Tama zoological park stated that three lionesses died on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. A veterinarian observed dehydration and multiple organ failure, leading to suspected heatstroke as the cause of death. Since mid-July, 10 of the 16 lions at the park have experienced "loss of appetite and decreased activity."
Japan recorded its hottest summer last year, and parts of the country have recently reached 40C, meeting the criteria for the new "cruelly hot day" designation. Zoo keepers have been implementing countermeasures against the heat, including sprinkling water, improving ventilation, and installing spot air conditioners.
Between 20 and 26 July, approximately 18,600 people in Japan were hospitalised for heatstroke, with 45 fatalities reported by the fire and disaster management agency.