The Chicago-area Brookfield Zoo announced Tuesday that the second of its two African lions has died less than two weeks after her mate was euthanized for age-related reasons earlier in the month.
The zoo said in its announcement that the 14-year-old female lion, Isis, appeared to have fallen and injured herself in her habitat’s moat, and zoo officials made “the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her” based on her injuries.
“The safety and well-being of the animals in our care is our utmost priority,” Bill Zeigler, senior vice president of animal programs, said in the announcement. “Although it is unclear what caused her fall, we are reviewing all aspects of this tragic occurrence.”
Isis’s mate Zenda was euthanized Jan. 2 at 13 years old. Both lions arrived at the zoo in 2008. “Isis and her mate were majestic animals who had a strong bond. The staff, who dedicated their lives to care for these charismatic lions, are heartbroken by their loss,” Zeigler said in the statement.