A lion at a zoo in Liaoning province, China, has drawn widespread concern after appearing severely emaciated in viral footage, with some viewers describing it as “skin and bones” and raising fears of illness or neglect.
The video, reportedly filmed at the Benxi Animal and Plant Garden, showed a male lion lying weakly on the ground with an extremely thin frame, prompting public scrutiny over its condition and the zoo’s animal care standards.
Following the backlash, the zoo issued a statement explaining that the lion, named “Da Mao,” is 14 years old and had refused to eat for an extended period after the death of its longtime companion last August.
According to the zoo, the lion’s mate died of old age, after which Da Mao reportedly experienced a prolonged period of distress and stopped eating for over 40 days, surviving only on water and gradually losing significant weight.
Officials said the lion began to recover in February and has since resumed normal feeding, with its condition gradually improving under veterinary care. The zoo added that Da Mao now consumes about five kilograms of beef and chicken daily as its appetite returns.
The zoo also noted that the lion has become more active and is spending more time outdoors, and has even begun accepting a new companion introduced recently.
The incident has sparked discussion online about animal welfare in captivity, though the zoo maintains that the lion is now under close observation and continuing to recover.
