Lionel, LA Zoo Lion, Has Died
A male lion at the LA Zoo, Lionel, has passed away, the Zoo announced today.
A lion at the LA Zoo, photographed in February 2011 by Joits via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr
At 23, Lionel was considered old for a lion. He had been treated in recent months by the Zoo's veterinary team for neurological difficulties and urinary incontinence, and officials decided to euthanize him on Saturday. He had been at the zoo since 1997.
Lionel's death leaves the LA Zoo with one female lion, Cookie, who is 22.
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