The Greenville Zoo announced Tuesday one of its African lions, Saied, died March 26.
The 15-year-old was euthanized in the morning due to a rapid and irreversible worsening of degenerative joint disease and spinal neurological issues, according to the city of Greenville.
Saied was being monitored with bloodwork and other diagnostic testing prior to his death. Zoo staff met to discuss his health status before the consensus was made to euthanize the lion, the city said.
Saied and Chuma, his brother, came to the Greenville Zoo from the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia in 2010.
Zookeepers and veterinarians are monitoring Chuma as he adjusts to the loss. The zoo is in the process of making plans for the community to share condolences and a remembrance.
This story was filed as part of an editorial partnership between South Carolina Public Radio and the Greenville Journal, which is responsible for its content. You can learn more about the Greenville Journal here.