The last rare white lion at Saigon Zoo dies at 18

MiMi, an 18-year-old white lioness, died on Oct. 21 despite intensive treatment for multiple organ failure at the Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens.

A zoo spokesperson said the animal showed signs of appetite loss and deteriorating health about two weeks ago.

MiMi at Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Photo by Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Veterinarians, other experts, and the city Sub-Department of Animal Health determined that MiMi suffered from organ failure due to old age.

She was one of two white lions bought from South Africa's Bester Birds & Animal Zoo Park in 2010, when both were around 18 months old, at a cost of over VND1 billion (US$38,714).

The other, a male, was named MiNo.

He died of old age in 2022.

The lioness remained at the facility, often resting and moving little.

Over the years, she became one of the most familiar sights for visitors to the zoo.

MiMi at Saigon Zoo in 2023. Photo by Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

White lions belong to the African lion species, scientifically named Panthera leo, and are not a separate species.

Their white coat is the result of a recessive gene mutation that causes reduced pigmentation, which is distinct from albinism.

In the wild, these individuals are recorded mostly in the Timbavati region of South Africa.

In July 2025, a 10-year-old white Bengal tiger named Ngo Khong died at the zoo due to multiple illnesses.