'Britain's oldest' Asiatic lion Kamal dies at zoo

An Asiatic lion believed to be Britain's oldest in captivity, whose "roar echoed across" a wildlife park in Suffolk, has died.

Kamal, who was living at Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park in Wherstead, near Ipswich, died at the age of 16 on Wednesday.

He had been transferred to the park from Chessington World of Adventures Resort in October, along with fellow lion Rani and an Amur tiger, Kalinka.

A spokesperson for Jimmy's Farm said: "We always knew our time with Kamal would be precious and we feel privileged to have provided him with a retirement home."

"Today we said goodbye to our Asiatic lion, Kamal. Whilst today is a sad day for us all we also celebrate the long life of Kamal," a spokesperson said.

"He became Britain's oldest Asiatic lion in captivity.

"Kamal was a magnificent lion - his roar echoed across the park each day, becoming a sound that so many of us will always remember."

According to the Zoological Society of London, as few as 500 Asiatic lions remain in the Russian Far East and Western India, respectively.

Asiatic lions can live for 16 to 30 years, depending on whether they have lived in the wild or in captivity.

Jimmy's Farm said the decision was "made to say goodbye" to Kamal when it became clear that the effects of old age were impacting his quality of life.

"As always, Kamal's welfare was our absolute priority and we ensured he was able to pass peacefully and without suffering."

Before moving to Jimmy's Farm, Kamal and Rani had been living at Chessington as part of a European breeding programme.

The pair mated and bred three female cubs.

"We know many of you will be thinking of our lioness, Rani," the park spokesperson said.

"She remains in the care of our dedicated team, who will continue to monitor her closely over the coming days and weeks.

"We will ensure she receives all the care, attention and support she needs as she adjusts, with her welfare remaining our highest priority, just as it always has."

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