Lioness Kills Her Mate At Indy Zoo And No One Knows Why

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Nyack, a 10-year-old African lion, died Friday of injuries sustained when his mate attacked him, the Indianapolis Zoo said. Officials said they would conduct a thorough review to understand what led to the attack by the lioness Zuri.

The two lions had two cubs together three years ago. The three younger lions and Zuri are "all OK," the zoo said in a social media post.

The zoo said the two adult lions had lived together for eight years and there was never any indication something like this would happen.

Before the Indianapolis Zoo opened Monday, staff heard an "unusual amount of roaring from the outdoor lion yard" as Zuri attacked Nyack, according to reports.

The zoo's veterinary staff told WRTV that Nyack died of suffocation injuries to the neck. Staff members tried to separate the big cats, but were unsuccessful, the station reported.

"Nyack was a magnificent lion and he will be greatly missed. We appreciate the support from our community as we cope with the loss," The Indianapolis Zoo said.

Image via Patch