Riverbanks Zoo announces death of Zuri, a beloved male lion

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is mourning the loss of a beloved male lion.

The lion, Zuri, arrived at the Columbia-based Zoo in 2005 and has been a “cherished member of the Riverbanks family” for nearly two decades.

While the zoo did not specify how Zuri died, they say the lion played a crucial role at Riverbanks by fathering 13 cubs and contributing to the population of African lions.

“His morning roars were a comforting sound for many, marking the start of each day. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy and memory will forever hold a special place in our hearts,” the zoo said in a Facebook post.

Zuri was born at Sedwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas, and recently celebrated his 20^th birthday. “Zuri’s longevity and quality of life stands as a testament to the exceptional care he received from Riverbanks staff over the years,” Riverbanks Zoo added.

Lions in zoos can live into their late teens or early 20s, and life expectancy is much shorter in the wild, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Zuri lived a full life past expectancy while being cared for at Riverbanks.

Zoo officials say lionesses Thabisa and Lindelani, who were cared for behind the scenes by Zuri’s side, will soon return to their habitat for guests.

Leaders said their return will help maintain the natural social dynamics of the pride.

News 2 has contacted Riverbanks Zoo to learn more about the lion’s passing.