HOUSTON – The Houston Zoo's beloved lion Jonathan has died at 18.
The Zoo said Jonathan had a serious blood clotting issue and low white blood cell count. He passed away Wednesday after spending the night in the care of veterinarians at the zoo's animal hospital.
"Jonathan's impact on our keepers and guests will not be forgotten," Dr. Adrian Fowler, Vice President of Animal Operations for the Houston Zoo, said. "Our team of keepers who have spent more than a decade caring and bonding with this incredible animal are grieving this loss, and we support them through this sad time."
Jonathan was rescued from a private owner when he was just a few years' old. He arrived at the Houston Zoo in 2006. He was usually surrounded by his pride of three female lions.
PHOTOS: Jonathan through the years
More information from the Houston Zoo:
"Scientists estimate there are less than 30,000 lions left in Africa, half the number of 20 years ago, and the biggest reasons for their decline are conflict with people and loss of habitat and prey due to human population growth. The Houston Zoo is proud to partner with several organizations in Africa who are dedicated to saving this amazing species."