MIAMI, Fla. (WFLA) — Zoo Miami announced the death of its last remaining lion, Kwame. He was euthanized on Friday, a day before his 18th birthday.
Veterinarians said Kwame had been treated for chronic arthritis, mostly in his upper spine, which limited his range of motion and comfort level.
Recently, he developed mobility issues that had become progressively worse.
"Despite a range of treatments aimed at providing pain relief and a good quality of life, he was displaying elevated levels of discomfort," the zoo said in a news release.
The team at the zoo said they exhausted all treatment options and made the difficult decision to euthanize him.
According to Zoo Miami, Kwame substantially exceeded the normal lifespan of a male lion, which rarely live past the age of 12.
Kwame arrived at Zoo Miami with his brother, Jabari, in November 2008 from the Racine Zoo in Wisconsin.
During his time at the zoo, officials said he and Jabrai fathered several cubs. The lion brothers quickly became favorites among the millions who visited the zoo.
Kwame's brother, Jabari, passed away in July.
Zoo Miami said it plans to bring in new lions through the Lion Species Survival Plan, which is managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
"Those lions will form the foundation of a new pride that will follow the legacy of Kwame, Jabari, and the lions before them," the zoo said.
