• The lion showed symptoms such as breathing issues and eating disorders
• First such case in Sri Lanka

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

A lion aged 11 at the Dehiwala Zoo was confirmed to have been infected with the coronavirus, the Department of Zoological Gardens said yesterday.  

It said the lion that showed symptoms such as breathing issues and eating disorders was subject to an Antigen test where the result was negative. However, a PCR test and some other tests confirmed that it was infected with COVID-19 virus.  

The infected lion has been kept in a separate place.   The Department said it sought instructions and support from the Central Zoo Authority of India since this was novel experience for Sri Lanka.   The lion named ‘Thor’ has been brought to Sri Lanka from Seoul Grand Park Zoo in 2011.  The department said a pygmy hippo and a Zebra died due to bacterial infection and obstruction in the digestive tract.     

Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath said a probe had been initiated to ascertain how the animal contracted the virus.  

The Health officials are also on alert on the lioness too, that was not in good health. However, the other lions are currently in good health.  The workers who treated the lion have been sent for quarantine. They will be PCR tested later. 

• The Department said it sought instructions and support from the Central Zoo Authority of India
• A probe had been initiated to ascertain how the animal contracted the virus