Phoenix Zoo announces death of African lion named Boboo

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Zoo is mourning the death of Boboo, its beloved male African lion.

The zoo announced Saturday that Boboo, pronounced Bah-boo, was humanely euthanized Friday.

Boboo, 8, was anesthetized Friday morning for examination due to rapid weight loss, intermittent interest in food and progressive lethargy.

According to a press release issued by the zoo, he was unresponsive to medical treatment.

The operation revealed what appeared to be an aggressive form of cancer involving both of Boboo’s kidneys and spleen.

Given the seriousness of his condition, veterinarians and zoo staff decided to humanely euthanize Boboo.

Boboo, who had an annual exam in May and received a clean bill of health, arrived at the Phoenix Zoo in 2019 from the Columbus Zoo.

He recently bred with the zoo’s female African lion, Zuri, giving birth to two cubs born on June 3.

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