Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo mourns loss of African lion

Video: Bahati roars for guests. Credit to the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo had to say goodbye to Bahati the African lion on Thursday.

The male lion, whom visitors have adored since 2016, died shortly after a cancer diagnosis, the zoo said in a press release.

Bahati was diagnosed with thymic cancer last week, following a relatively short period of inappetence. Due to his rapid decline despite palliative care, he was humanely euthanized, surrounded by his care team. It has been a great honor to have cared for Bahati ever since he arrived as an awkward adolescence without a mane, through becoming a majestic adult, and being able to provide him a dignified, peaceful end.”

Dr. Kami Fox, Director of Animal Health and Conservation

Bahati could be found in the African Journey section of the zoo.

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