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Calgary Zoo’s African lion dies during recovery from veterinary exam

Aslan, a 12-year-old African lion at the Calgary Zoo, is seen in an August 2021 supplied photo. Calgary Zoo

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is mourning the loss of Aslan, the 12-year-old African lion who died Monday while recovering from a veterinary exam.

In a social media post, zoo officials confirmed that the examination was prompted by the “rapid onset” of symptoms connected to his previously diagnosed kidney and cardiac disease.

Veterinary staff determined Aslan’s kidney disease had significantly worsened and he died post-exam.

A necropsy will be conducted to determine the cause of his death.

Aslan, a 12-year-old African lion at the Calgary Zoo, died July 31 following a veterinary exam. Supplied/Calgary Zoo

Aslan was transferred to the Calgary Zoo in 2012, alongside his brother Baruti, from the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C.

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The brothers were joined in 2019 by lionesses Mali and Sabi.

Zoo officials say the animal care, health and welfare team will monitor Baruti, Mali and Sabi following the death of a member of their pride.

Click to play video: 'Peacock killed by lions at Calgary Zoo'
Peacock killed by lions at Calgary Zoo

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