Knowsley Safari Park has confirmed the death of Sam, a 15-year-old African lion, after a sudden decline in his health. Staff made the decision to humanely euthanise the animal to prevent any suffering.
Statement from the park
In a statement shared on social media on Tuesday, August 25, the team at Knowsley Safari Park said: "It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Sam, our 15-year-old African lion."
"Sam was a much-loved member of our pride and an unforgettable part of the Safari experience for countless guests over the years," the statement continued. "Following a sudden decline in his health, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanise him to prevent any suffering. Sam will be remembered fondly by the keepers who cared for him every day and by everyone who had the privilege of seeing him."
Tributes from visitors
Knowsley is home to a drive-through lion reserve, which allows visitors to see the animals up close. People flooded the comments with messages of condolence after the sad news.
One person wrote: "Rest in peace Sam. I met him last year for the first and only time", and another said: "RIP Sam, we only saw you late end of July too". Other comments included "That is sad to hear, but better than continued suffering. I've watched him with his pride for many years." and "R I P sam we will miss we wondered why we didn't see you yesterday".
Other losses this year
The news comes just a few months after Handaya, an African lioness, died in her sleep on Monday, May 18. Handaya had been experiencing "age-related health issues" and was under monitoring and treatment from the Knowsley Safari Park vets. She was born at the safari in 2008 and was approaching her 18th birthday.
The park has also lost one of its oldest residents, a 40-year-old white rhino called Piglet, and a tiger cub named Ozo this year. A park spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our much-loved White Rhino, Piglet, who passed away. Piglet had been monitored by our keepers and vet for the last few weeks. Piglet was around 40 years old and was a popular part of Knowsley’s rhino crash for 31 years. She had a peaceful end to a long and happy life at the Safari, and she will be sorely missed by her keepers, guests and the rest of her crash."
Sharing the news of Ozo's death, a post read: "Ozo was much-loved by keepers and visitors alike, as well as by his mother, Yuki, and sister, Akira. During his short time on Knowsley’s Tiger Trail, Ozo quickly became known for his curious and playful nature endearing him to all who watched him grow. Ozo’s keepers and the wider team at Knowsley Safari are deeply saddened by his sudden passing."
