COLCHESTER Zoo has said its last lion may have to leave the zoo after the death of the attraction’s lioness.
The Maldon Road attraction says it is exploring bringing in a female lioness for Bailey, but this option is reliant on a lioness being available at a neighbouring zoo.
Furthermore, zoo bosses fear the stress of introducing a female at this stage in his life could prove too stressful, so they may have to relocate him.
The zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams took the difficult decision to euthanise lioness Naja at the impressive age of 18 following the “rapid deterioration” of her health on Friday.
Diagnostic tests had identified she was suffering from severe heart disease and a possible thrombosis.
A zoo spokesperson said: “We would like to thank all our visitors for the overwhelming support that we have received following the devastating news of the passing of our female lioness, Naja.
“We have received many kind messages towards our staff, as well as concerns about our male lion, Bailey.
“Bailey’s health and welfare is our top priority and, whilst our animal care team continues to monitor him daily, discussions have been put in place by the animal care management team regarding Bailey’s future at Colchester Zoo.
“The team are currently exploring bringing in a female lioness for Bailey, but this option is reliant on a lioness being available at one of our neighbouring zoos.
“However, given Bailey’s age, introducing a female at this stage in his life could prove too stressful.
“The team are also exploring relocating Bailey to another zoo with a pride of lionesses. This would be dependent on another organisation having the space to house Bailey and the move alone could prove too much.”
Read more: The five Colchester Zoo deaths which broke our (and the nation's) hearts
The zoo stated parting with Bailey feels “impossible and irresponsible” due to his popularity with zoo guests and staff alike.
The spokesperson added: “It’s our responsibility to ensure Bailey’s welfare is at the forefront of any decision made, which may include letting him live out the rest of his life here at the zoo by himself.
“We hope you will support our decision to keep Bailey at Colchester Zoo’s lion rock for now, on his own.”
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