Keepers at Taronga Western Plains Zoo are saddened by the passing of African Lion, Lazarus. In late December 2019, Lazarus's health deteriorated suddenly and he required immediate veterinary assistance.
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The zoo's veterinary team anaesthetised Lazarus to investigate the cause but sadly it revealed he was in organ failure. Staff then made the heartbreaking decision to put him to sleep. Lazarus was 17 years old and was considered geriatric.
Keepers and the veterinary team had been monitoring Lazarus closely over the past year as he had been showing early signs of kidney disease.
Lazarus played a key role in the conservation breeding program for his species, siring two litters whilst at Taronga Western Plains Zoo with a total of seven cubs.
The keepers have a lot of fond memories from working with Lazarus, particularly the way he would often greet them in the morning with a little chuff and rub is head along the mesh fence to say hello.
Throughout his life, Lazarus produced 13 descendants in total who have since gone on to have cubs of their own ensuring his genetic line continues to be represented.
Lazarus leaves behind his companion Maya and keepers are ensuring her welfare is paramount. The team are spending more time with her and doing behavioural enrichment.
Plans are being made for Maya to be transferred to Taronga Zoo, Sydney in the coming months where she will be paired with another male lion.
The keepers have a lot of fond memories from working with Lazarus, particularly the way he would often greet them in the morning with a little chuff and rub is head along the mesh fence to say hello.
They all recall how he was such an amazing dad to all of his cubs, he was so tolerant letting them pull his mane in every direction and even getting bitten on the tail from time to time and his only reaction would be a slight snarl of displeasure! All of the lion keepers feel very privileged to have worked alongside Lazarus and will not forget him.
Lazarus was an iconic animal and a much-loved resident at the Zoo's Lion Pride Lands precinct, not only with staff but guests as well. He will be sadly missed.
