Colchester Zoo lioness Naja dies aged 18
The lioness was a favourite with zoo goers and staff say she was 'one of a kind'
Staff at Colchester Zoo say lioness Naja will be 'sorely missed' after her death at the age of 18.
Naja was put to sleep on Friday (March 4) after tests determined she was suffering with severe heart disease and a possible thrombosis.
After her health started to deteriorate a decision was made to bring her life to an end.
Naja leaves behind male lion and cousin Bailey. Her sister Malika died in 2020.
Staff are now taking extra steps to support Bailey who is now facing life alone.
In a statement, Emma, who heads up the Carnivore Team at the zoo, said:
“Naja was truly one of a kind. Her personality and character set her aside from any other animal we’ve had the pleasure to work with."
“Naja had a gentle side where she would interact with her keepers but very quickly changed when food was available! It never gets any easier losing an animal you’ve cared for and Naja will be sorely missed by the team!
"Our main priority now is to make sure Bailey adjusts to life on his own.”