MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Thabo, the only male lion at the Memphis Zoo and one of its most well-known residents, died last week at 16, the zoo announced Monday.
The zoo says he underwent surgery Aug. 7 to remove a bladder stone that had been causing him pain. Thabo stopped breathing during recovery, and resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, the zoo said.
“For nearly 15 years, Thabo was the face of the Memphis Zoo. As the first animal to greet guests upon entering, he welcomed and bid farewell to literally millions of visitors, leaving an impression that will not soon fade. His absence will be deeply felt by many,” the Memphis Zoo said in a statement…