Manila Zoo lion 'Raffy' in viral video under observation

MANILA, Philippines — The administration of Manila Zoo has put "Raffy," the lion appearing to be having a seizure in a viral video, under round-the-clock observation.

Heinrich Patrick Peña Domingo, officer-in-charge of the Zoological Division, said that he has ordered zoo observers to start a medical diary and note changes in the lion's appetite and behavior.

“Right now, okay naman si Raffy. The whole day, okay naman, normal naman yung appetite,” Domingo said.

A video of Raffy supposedly having a seizure has been making rounds on social media. According to Mark Christopher Lee, who posted the video, the lion collapsed then its body started "convulsing."

Raffy has not shown a decrease in appetite since Sunday afternoon when the viral video was taken, but Domingo stressed that they are not taking the recorded footage of the lion lightly.

It would be too soon for them to conclude that Raffy is sick, said Domingo.

Tests would stress Raffy

He added that if they would decide to sedate and run a blood test—based solely on the viral video—Raffy would be subjected to stress.

“Normally, we would have a medical diary (on the animal) to observe when did it happen, if it is a recurring incident. We are observing him,” he added.

He also explained that seizures can happen to lions when they are in the wild, to protect their offsprings or their pack, especially when they are in a stressful environment.

This also happens to male lions aged 9 or 10 years old.

But Raffy is only four years old. Domingo said that Raffy has been taking vitamins and has been maintaining a health appetite, consuming four to six kilos of beef and chicken every day.

Domingo also urged the public to notify the Manila Zoo administration of incidents at the zoo.

The officer added that the Manila Zoo is under the Manila City government’s Public Recreation Bureau and they have been observing ethical guidelines in responding to viral social media posts. — Kristine Joy Patag