Denver, CO – The Denver Zoo is mourning the loss of an African lion who was humanely euthanized for chronic health issues. In a public release, the zoo said that Princess Sabi was euthanized on November 15; she was plagued with a menagerie of health issues, including hydrocephalus, kidney failure, and severe arthritis.
Princess Sabi was born on June 19, 2012. She and her brothers were taken in by the zoo after living for four months with the Royal Family of Qatar. The family realized that they did not have the expertise to properly care for the big cats and made the decision to relocate them to a “more appropriate” home.
The zoo writes:
It was our pleasure to provide the proper expertise and care for these lions, and Sabi and her brothers were hand-raised by our incredibly loving Animal Care team. While Sabi’s brothers moved on to different zoos in support of the SSP, Sabi remained at Denver Zoo due to various pre-existing health issues. It has been an honor to provide a safe home for Sabi over the years and watch this sweet girl blossom into a beloved member of our lion family.
Sabi is remembered as a sweet lion who enjoyed attention from her caretakers. She was closely bonded with 11-year-old Neliah, who will be monitored closely to ensure her death is being handled well.
One of Sabi’s specialist care providers said:
“It has been such an honor to know Sabi. To have the privilege of being one of her caretakers has been one of the best experiences in my career. Sabi was tiny but mighty and her sweet and silly personality won the hearts of everyone who met her. Sabi loved to lay in the sun and supervise pride activities. She never failed to let her keepers know when she was in need of a snack, and we always made sure to oblige. Sabi never failed to amaze me with her ability to learn new behaviors and literally reach new heights. Sabi will be greatly missed, and I am very thankful to have been part of her life.”
Rest easy Sabi.
(Images via Denver Zoo)
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