Cincinnati Zoo Is Forced To Euthanize A 20-Year-Old White Lion Named Gracious

A white lion born at Cincinnati Zoo on April 1, 2001, was euthanized at almost 21 years because its health had began to decline.

The female, named Gracious was born to mom Prosperity, who arrived at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1998.

According to a statement posted on Facebook, the lion was almost 21 years old and lived five years past the median life expectancy for her species.

“At almost 21 years old, she was considered a geriatric animal and, as such, her quality of life was closely monitored,” the zoo wrote.

“Her health began to decline and when she lost interest in her favorite food, meatballs, her care team knew it was time to say goodbye. She lived five years longer than the median life expectancy for her species, which can be attributed to the special geriatric enrichment, diet, and TLC that she has received from her care team, some of whom had cared for her since she was born.”

Laura Carpenter, a keeper at Cincinnati zoo, said: “Gracious was very intelligent and was willing to train for several behaviors including being hand injected for vaccinations. Her favorite things to do were laying on the deck with her mother and playing with her giant Boomer balls.”

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