The Chicago Zoological Society is heartbroken to announce the sudden death of their female lion, Isis. What makes her death a little harder to swallow is the fact that her death comes just 11 days after the loss of her lifelong mate Zenda. He was Brookfield Zoo’s massive male African lion. Both majestic creatures arrived at the Brookfield Zoo in May of 2008 and are a well-known couple, often times seen grooming or cuddling together. Many people traveled far to see the pair and their deaths just 11 days apart have saddened the community. These two lions had such a strong bond that their separation was something that neither of them wanted to bear. The love that these two shared could be made into a movie.
The lions would have been 14 and 15 years old this year. This is actually decently old for lions.
The two could be seen playing with each other or cuddling every day. Their love was apparent and very strong.
Both lions arrived in 2008 and have been inseparable ever since.
The zoo announced the sad news on their website stating “The new year has begun on a very sad note at Brookfield Zoo, as we have had to announce the passing of our male and female African lions, Zenda and Isis. They would have turned 14 and 15 this year, respectively.Both lions arrived at Brookfield Zoo in 2008 and were an inseparable bonded pair in all the years since. It was not uncommon to see Zenda grooming Isis or sleeping with a paw on her in their Big Cats exhibit. He remained incredibly protective of her throughout their lives.”
The male Zenda was having difficulty walking during Christmas and the decision was made to ethically euthanize him on January 2nd.
After his death, it was discovered that he had ruptured disks in his spine that would have been inoperable. This broke Isis’s heart and her condition immediately started to deteriorate. She was found on January 13th lying down in her moat. Vets believe she had fallen. They immediately tried to give her medical attention but ultimately the decision was made to euthanize her.
These two beautiful lions made a huge impact on the community and their fans were heartbroken. Everyone relayed their most heartfelt sympathies and loving memories to the zoo staff.
These two were inseparable and truly loved each other.
They inspired so many people every year to love and respect these giant cats. They were incredible stewards for their species.
These fan photos are beautiful. Lions are one of the most intriguing animals on this planet.
After someone loses such a significant part of their life, continuing on alone just isn’t the same.
These amazing creatures influenced so many people. Their impact is much bigger than they could every know.
Their love was abundant and so apparent.
These lions were loved by so many.
Zoo’s receive a lot of love and hate but in the end they are trying to help conservancy, education and rescue animals who need a home.
What a wonderful sentiment from this person.
The two that were inseparable are still inseparable.
More Info: Brookfield Zoo
These two were rescued and needed a good home, They lived full long lives with each other. The Brookfield Zoo has given them a great home and wonderful care. They were soul mates and when you lose a soul mate, you want nothing more than to be with them.