TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Busch Gardens is mourning the loss of one of its beloved male lions, 17-year-old Simon.
In a statement released Thursday, the theme park said after Simon’s health rapidly declined late last week, they “made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him” despite their efforts to save his life.
FWC releases likely cause of manatee deaths after spike in carcasses in Hernando County
Simon arrived at Busch Gardens as a cub in 2007 and was a playful soul. The team said he lived a long and vibrant life, as many male lions only live to about 10 years old. Simon was known to love to break open coconuts and pumpkins, as well as take baths in beds of spices and seasonings.
The care team is transitioning their focus to their other lion, Rose, as they continue to celebrate Simon’s mark he left, and all the hearts that he touched, with its guests and staff.
“We take comfort in knowing the legacy of the joy he brought to so many will live on,” Busch Gardens said. “We thank you for your support during this difficult time.”