Three lions have died from heatstroke at a Tokyo zoo, triggering urgent expert warnings that UK zoo animals could face similar risks during extreme heatwaves
A heatwave has claimed the lives of three lionesses at a zoo in Tokyo, triggering urgent warnings that animals in UK zoos could face a similar nightmare. Japan is currently sweltering in “cruelly hot” conditions. Since mid-July, 10 out of 16 lions at Tama Zoological Park have suffered severe symptoms including loss of appetite and extreme lethargy as temperatures hit a brutal 40C.
Keepers battled to save the pride using industrial fans, water sprays and intravenous fluids, but three lionesses – 15-year-old Luena, 11-year-old Ichigo and three-year-old Mugi – tragically died from suspected heatstroke.
A zoo spokeswoman: “According to our veterinarian, the cause of the deaths is suspected to be heatstroke as dehydration and multiple organ failure were observed.
“Even though lions are thought to be resistant to heat, zoo keepers have been strengthening countermeasures to cope with Japan’s summer heat in recent years. Heat here comes with high humidity – that is different from heat with dry air in Africa.”
The tragedy has sparked concern among animal welfare experts who warn British zoos cannot afford to be complacent as global temperatures continue to skyrocket.
Samantha Ward, Professor of Zoo Animal Welfare and Legislation at Nottingham Trent University, told the Daily Mail: “I do not think UK zoos should assume that traditionally ‘warm-climate’ species will automatically cope with British heatwaves.”
She explained that high humidity, limited space and rapid temperature spikes severely impact big cats. “Lions do not sweat effectively like humans,” Professor Ward said.
“They rely heavily on behavioural strategies, respiratory cooling (panting), shade-seeking and reducing activity. When humidity is high, evaporative cooling becomes less effective.”
She said animals born in captivity lack experience with extreme climates, adding: “It’s also worth noting that these lions have never experienced ‘the wild’ and African temperatures, therefore although their physiology is built for heat, if the lions are not used to it, especially with rapid spikes in temperature this could also cause problems.”
With climate change driving unprecedented weather, Professor Ward warned British facilities must adapt quickly.
She said: “UK zoos may face a particular challenge because many facilities were designed around a relatively temperate climate. Historically, far more attention was given to preventing cold stress than extreme heat.”
Dr Paul Rose, from the Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour at Exeter University, said he would be surprised to see a healthy adult lion die in the UK, but warned older animals and cubs remain vulnerable.
He said: “Animals that live at good zoos in the UK will receive extra care in hot weather. We are prepared for such scenarios in zoos and keepers work hard to ensure that animals are kept comfortable.”
Tama Zoo has since upgraded its emergency measures by installing spot air conditioners, extra ventilation and water misters to protect the remaining pride.