At the Guangzhou Zoo in southern China, a white lion named A Hang has recently become the center of an unusual controversy—one that blends humor, curiosity, and public criticism. Visitors were surprised over the weekend when they spotted the majestic male lion sporting what appeared to be a neatly trimmed fringe. Photos quickly spread online, and social media users began questioning whether zookeepers had taken scissors to the animal’s mane in an attempt to give him a new “hairstyle.”
Many viewers found the look amusing, comparing A Hang’s bangs to a trendy human haircut. Others, however, were less entertained. Critics accused the zoo of interfering unnecessarily with the lion’s natural appearance, arguing that altering a wild animal’s distinctive mane for cosmetic reasons was inappropriate. The debate escalated as more people weighed in, some defending the zoo while others demanded an explanation.
In response, zoo authorities firmly denied giving A Hang a haircut. They insisted that the lion’s unusual fringe was the result of Guangzhou’s heat and humidity, which can be intense during certain seasons. According to staff, climate conditions can cause a lion’s mane to droop, separate, or appear flattened—especially in the case of white lions, whose finer hair textures react differently to moisture.
A Hang, who arrived at the zoo in 2015 from Hangzhou in Zhejiang province, has long been a popular attraction. His striking white coat and typically luxurious mane draw crowds throughout the year. This recent episode has only increased his fame, adding a lighthearted chapter to his story.
Whether caused by weather or human grooming, A Hang’s unexpected hairstyle has sparked conversations about animal care, zoo transparency, and the ways people react when wildlife appears just a bit more like us than usual.
