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Gelsenkirchen Zoo Euthanizes Beloved Lion Bantu at 14

The zoo says a sudden downturn after long-term illness led to the decision.

Overview

  • Bantu, a 14-year-old male who arrived from Zoo Dortmund in 2015, was euthanized after his health worsened, the zoo announced Tuesday.
  • The zoo said he had long-standing medical issues and was under constant veterinary care before a sharp decline and added complications forced the call.
  • Addressing the pride’s future, the zoo said it is not considering a replacement yet and will decide on the enclosure later.
  • Keepers remembered an unusually gentle male who was patient with the lionesses and, in their words, a “too good soul for this world.”
  • Visitors posted shock and grief on Facebook and Instagram, with some saying they had seen him only days earlier.