A woman has reportedly lost her arm after being mauled by a lion at a zoo in Australia.
The victim, described as an experienced zookeeper in her 50s, was airlifted to hospital after the lion launched an “inexplicable” attack this morning at Darling Downs Zoo, south of Toowoomba in Queensland, on Sunday morning.
The woman is currently undergoing surgery and is said to be in a stable condition following the incident at 8.30am local time.
She is said to be "a much loved" member of the zoo's community and was injured while observing keepers at work in the carnivore precinct.
In a statement, Darling Downs Zoo said: "This is something that she has done many, many times over the past 20 years. She is well versed in safety protocols around potentially dangerous animals."
The woman suffered a “severe” injury after the lion grabbed her by one arm.
The zoo has closed for a day following the attack but is expected to reopen tomorrow. Officials confirmed the animal did not leave its enclosure and said there was "no risk" to other staff or the public.
The zoo added the lion will "definitely not be put down or punished in any way" and that they are "extremely grateful" to Queensland ambulance services for their quick assistance and support.
They said that further details will be shared when available.
Queensland Ambulance Service stated: "Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics assessed a female in her 50s with a significant arm injury following an animal bite on Baines Road at 8.23am.
"A rescue helicopter transported the patient to the Princess Alexandra Hospital in a stable condition."
A spokesperson for Workplace Health and Safety Queensland said: "Workplace Health and Safety Queensland have been notified about an incident at Pilton, near Toowoomba earlier today (Sunday 6 July 2025).
"WHSQ Inspectors are onsite and making inquiries. No further comment can be made at this time."
