Blackpool zoo announces devastating news that lion cub has died

A lion cub at Blackpool Zoo has sadly died.

A spokesperson for the zoo announced the devastating news earlier today that Kito, who was one of three cubs, passed away yesterday.

They said: “We are saddened to announce that one of our three lion cubs passed away yesterday, Tuesday 10th November, following a very short illness.

“He was being treated for abdominal discomfort after showing signs of being unwell on Monday.

“Investigative surgery revealed gastro intestinal complications and infection, requiring more complex surgery and a lengthy recovery process, if he made it through the difficult surgery in his weakened condition.

“All possible options were explored before eventually both the animal team and the veterinary experts sadly concluded that the kindest thing was for him to be euthanised.”

He was born to mum, Hira, and dad, Khari on July 26 this year alongside his brother and sister and it has been wonderful to see the pride bonding and the little ones playing in the paddock.

The spokesperson added: “Hira has been an excellent mother and our older female Narla has played a really important role in showing her the way and helping her care for the youngsters. The cubs were recently successfully introduced to their father and the pride was complete.

“There have been no previous concerns about the cubs and they have undergone two health checks, one of which took place very recently and both of which went well with no concerns raised.

“We have been in the process of naming the cubs by asking people to vote for options on our social media channels and had chosen options that matched their developing personalities. Keepers have now chosen to name him Kito, meaning precious jewel in Swahili.

“The whole team is absolutely heartbroken and we are sure many visitors and members will share our sadness having followed the cubs' story since their birth. The rest of the pride remains under the watchful eye of our dedicated keepers, as they monitor the pride’s behaviour and interactions.

“We would like to thank everyone for their understanding and support during this incredibly difficult time for the team.”