Zoo animals have always garnered the attention, and often the affection, of the public. In the case of Kamaia, the majestic 14-year-old male lion from the Franklin Park Zoo, his recent passing tugs at our heartstrings on so many levels. After battling health issues since Spring and undergoing multiple surgeries, Kamaia was humanely euthanized yesterday due to further decline in his health, reported by The Boston Globe.
His most recent struggles began with a bout of severe pneumonia earlier this year, which prompted concerns from his keepers and the veterinarians at Zoo New England. This eventually led to the discovery of other chronic health issues, which already laid heavy on the lion's wellbeing.
In June, Kamaia underwent a life-saving splenectomy and received a blood transfusion from Dinari. His brother being a perfect match made the difference in ensuring his survival. The lion's spleen was discovered to be twice its normal size, and surgery lasted about three hours, as reported by The Boston Globe. Unfortunately, Kamaia later developed a hernia near the incision site, which required another surgery.
However, through this adversity and the tireless efforts of the Zoo New England team, Kamaia was able to continue to bask in the sun and lounge with his brother within their outdoor habitat at the Franklin Park Zoo.
Zoo New England President and CEO, John Linehan, mourned the loss of their beloved animal ambassador in a statement shared by Boston 25 News, expressing his gratitude to the dedicated care team who worked day and night to ensure Kamaia's comfort. "This news is never easy, and we ask that you keep his care team in your thoughts at this difficult time," he said.
On another note, Kamaia's brother, Dinari, can still be seen at the Franklin Park Zoo.
Emphasizing his fond memories of Kamaia, Chris Bartos, the assistant curator at Franklin Park Zoo, mentioned via Boston 25 News how the majestic lion enjoyed enrichment activities such as tearing into boxes and bags to find hidden treats, or simply rolling in unusual scents. "He will be greatly missed by all who knew him," Bartos said.
