Pueblo Zoo announces passing of 20-year-old African lion Mashavu

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Zoo has announced one of its lions has passed away after suffering from ongoing age-related issues.

The zoo announced 20-year-old female African lion Mashavu was humanely euthanized on Wednesday morning. Zoo officials say she had been placed on end-of-life care last week due to ongoing health issues related to her age.

The zoo says its Animal Care Team had been monitoring Mashavu's health leading up to her death on Wednesday.

Mashavu joined the zoo in 2011 and gave birth to four cubs, including triplets, according to the zoo.

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