Lioness grows small mane in ‘very curious case’ at Oklahoma zoo
OKLAHOMA CITY – Veterinarians at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens are investigating a strange occurrence with an 18-year-old African lioness.
Zoo officials say Bridget, the zoo’s 18-year-old African lioness, has suddenly spouted a mini-mane.
Male lions usually begin growing a mane when they are about 1-year-old, which is when they begin producing more testosterone.
However, it is extremely rare for a female lion to grow a mane.
In other instances, experts say lionesses have grown manes when there is a hormone issue or some sort of genetic component.
Zoo officials say they have taken a blood sample from Bridget and are currently awaiting results.
Veterinarians say they will continue to monitor her closely, but add that her condition is not likely to affect Bridget...