The El Paso Zoo is in mourning following the death of one of its most notable residents, a California sea lion named Little Bit, affectionately known as L.B., who passed away at the age of 25 on September 1 due to declining health. Before his death, L.B. exhibited signs of discomfort and a significantly reduced appetite which led to close monitoring by the zoo staff, as reported by KTSM.
According to KVIA, the sea lion's health continued to worsen despite receiving oral medications and symptomatic care from the zoo's veterinary team, after his death a necropsy unveiled a fluid-filled mass the size of a cantaloupe in his right shoulder and ulcers in his stomach, conditions that coupled with a suspected heart or kidney disease common in elderly sea lions contributed to his demise.
In honor of the beloved sea creature, El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens Director, Joe Montisano, said, "L.B. was more than just an animal in our care, he was a beloved member of our Zoo family," as per KVIA. The sea lion was recognized not only for his daily performance demonstrations, which included a crowd-pleasing salute, but also for his past as the only military veteran animal in any zoo, having served three years in the U.S. Navy's Marine Mammal Program where he played roles in underwater detection and recovery missions before joining the zoo in 2013.
L.B.'s extended lifespan, surpassing the typical life expectancy of his species, was a testament to the exceptional care and attention he received from his keepers during his time in captivity at the El Paso Zoo, as reported by KFOX-TV, and his death has not only left the staff but also the community that had often gathered to witness his unique talents, feeling a void where once was a symbol of service and joy.
