A unique lion has taken over social media, charming millions with its adorable appearance. The viral sensation is an African lion named Corgi, who lives at the Jiudingshan Wildlife Zoo in Zhuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.

Zoo officials nicknamed him “Corgi” after the famous dog breed because this lion has unusually short legs. According to the staff, the condition is congenital, but it does not affect his health or daily life.

Viral video melts hearts
In a widely shared video, the dwarf lion is seen playfully chasing a ball, behaving much like a friendly pet dog. His calm, gentle nature has made him a favorite among the zoo’s caretakers as well.

Separated after being bullied
However, Corgi’s story also has a sad side. Caretaker Xiao Cai revealed that the lion was bullied by other lions because of his small size. To ensure his safety and comfort, the zoo moved him into a separate enclosure, where he now enjoys his time freely.

Questions raised about breeding practices
While Corgi’s cuteness has made him an online star, experts are concerned about what caused his condition. They warn that genetic abnormalities like his can arise when animals are bred in restricted or poorly managed environments. The viral attention has reignited discussions about responsible wildlife management and ethical breeding in captivity.

The video of the dwarf lion continues to spread across social media, delighting viewers worldwide.