Kamaia The Lion Dead At 14, Franklin Park Zoo Says

BOSTON — The Franklin Park Zoo is mourning the death of Kamaia, a 14-year-old lion who had lived at the zoo since 2015.

Kamaia faced several medical challenges in recent months, including pneumonia, anemia and an enlarged spleen requiring a splenectomy and blood transfusion, and an incision site hernia that required another surgery, according to the zoo. He was euthanized Saturday.

“Kamaia was an incredible ambassador for his species, and we are deeply saddened to share the news of his passing,” John Linehan, Zoo New England president and CEO, said in a news release.

Kamaia is survived by his brother, Dinari, who is also 14 and will continue to live in an outdoor habitat at the zoo.

“Kamaia was a favorite amongst his care team, and he really enjoyed his enrichment including tearing into boxes and bags to look for the treats hidden inside, as well as rolling in unusual scents,” Chris Bartos, an assistant curator at the Franklin Park Zoo, said in the release. “He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”