# Heatwave kills lions at Tokyo zoo

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/heatwave-kills-lions-at-tokyo-zoo
> Updated: 2026-08-05T21:00:59.000Z. Sources: 43. Developments: 2.

In late July 2026, three lionesses at Tokyo’s Tama Zoological Park – Mugi (3), Ichigo (11) and Luena (15) – died from severe heatstroke as Japan experienced an unprecedented heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 °C. Necropsies confirmed extreme dehydration and multi‑organ failure. The zoo responded by closing the lion enclosure, installing water sprays, industrial fans, and providing intravenous fluids, while moving the surviving lions to a cooled holding area.

A few days later, the park reported that the three remaining lions – two males and one female – were in critical condition despite being transferred to an indoor enclosure equipped with portable air‑conditioners and receiving intensive veterinary care. Staff also noted heat‑related stress in other animals, including a male giraffe and red pandas, prompting the installation of additional shade structures, cooling fans, and air‑conditioned rooms throughout the zoo.

The incident highlights the impact of extreme summer temperatures on captive wildlife and has drawn criticism from animal‑rights groups, while the zoo continues to monitor and treat the remaining animals.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-05: Three lions die and three more critically ill at Tokyo's Tama Zoo amid record heat

Three lionesses died of heatstroke at Tokyo's Tama Zoo; three remaining lions are critically ill and receiving intensive care as the zoo battles record heat and humidity.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/three-lions-die-and-three-more-critically-ill-at-tokyos-tama-zoo-amid-record-heat

### 2026-08-03: Tama Zoo in Tokyo reports death of three lionesses from heatstroke

Three lionesses at Tokyo’s Tama Zoo died from heatstroke during a record heatwave; necropsies showed dehydration and organ failure, prompting zoo closures and animal‑rights criticism.

40 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tama-zoological-park-lion-deaths-linked-to-extreme-heat

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Cite as: Heatwave kills lions at Tokyo zoo. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/heatwave-kills-lions-at-tokyo-zoo