FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 26, 2021 Media Contact: [email protected]

The End of an Era: Abilene Zoo Mourns Loss of Male Lion

Abilene, Tx - The Abilene Zoo is saddened to share news of the passing of its male lion, Botswana, on March 25th. The senior lion was humanely euthanized after a severe loss of mobility due to a suspected stroke in the overnight or early morning hours of the 25th. Botswana would have celebrated his 19th birthday June 23rd.

"Losing an animal is never easy," said Zoo Veterinarian Dr. Stephanie Carle, "Knowing our staff did all that was possible to help Botswana live a long life and pass with dignity brings us peace."

Zoo staff had been closely watching and managing Botswana’s health as he aged. A physical exam conducted last week revealed the senior lion’s kidney disease and dental concerns had progressed significantly.

Botswana was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease approximately 3 years ago, and had developed high blood pressure and other conditions associated with it. Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common aging abnormalities of both exotic and domestic cats.

"Animal care staff pour their hearts into caring for all of the animals daily, and it is like losing a family member when it is time to say goodbye. Our team has prepared for this day because we knew that Botswana was reaching the end of his life due to his advanced age," said General Curator and Animal Care Manager Denise Ibarra. "We truly mourn the loss of the animals we come to love, and Botswana will forever be a part of the Abilene Zoo."

Botswana was born June 23, 2002, and outlived the average 16-year life expectancy of lions in Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos by nearly 3 years. "The fact that Botswana lived a longer than average life span with kidney disease shows the great care that our team provides the animals,” stated Zoo Director Jesse Pottebaum. “We will miss Botswana's regal presence and trademark roar every morning at the zoo. It is the end of an era."

Botswana arrived at the Abilene Zoo in 2003 from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado. He enjoyed shank bones and enrichment items doused in perfume. His favorite training activity was getting up on the scale to check his weight. Botswana bonded with a female lion named Saba, following the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP) guidelines. The iconic pair had their first and only litter in 2010; five rambunctious cubs who stole the hearts of West Texans. Botswana was an exceptional dad, letting the cubs jump and play all over him while he napped. Botswana's cubs have since started prides in various parts of the world, including Disney's Animal Kingdom.

The zoo's Africa zone still features three lions (on temporary loan from the Fort Worth Zoo); a male lion named Jabulani and two females, Abagebe and Saba.

About Abilene Zoo Abilene Zoo was founded in 1966 as a collaborative partnership between the City of Abilene and the Abilene Zoological Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving wildlife and protecting wild places. Through its passion and expertise in animal care, conservation, and education, the Abilene Zoo’s mission is a place of learning and adventure where people make memories, share in the joy of discovery, and become inspired to save wildlife. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1985, this West Texas Zoo sees 129 school districts from over 51 Texas counties in addition to over a quarter of a million guests each year. To learn more, visit abilenezoo.org.

### Please contact the Abilene Zoo at 325.676.6085 for additional information about the facility, including special events and activities for visitors and its ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and science education.