Zoo Miami Mourns Loss of Lion Named Jabari
Incident Date:
07/25/2025
Location:
Miami, FL - USA
Facility Name:
Zoo Miami
Facility Type:
Accredited AZA Facility (AZA)
Incident Category:
Animal Death (AD)
Species:
Big Cats
Animal:
Lion
Animal disposition:
Dead
Summary:
MIAMI, FL – Zoo Miami euthanized one of their lions on Friday after worsening health conditions, according to zoo officials. Jabari, a 17-year-old male lion, was known for leading a pride and fathering cubs at the zoo.
For several years, Jabari suffered from chronic arthritis, primarily in his upper spine, which restricted his mobility and comfort. Despite extensive treatments to manage pain and maintain his quality of life, the lion’s condition deteriorated recently, leaving euthanasia as the only humane option. Jabari arrived at Zoo Miami in November 2008 from the Racine Zoo in Wisconsin, alongside his brother, Kwame.
Action take by Born Free USA:
Notes: