Lion dies after eye procedure revealed illness

An Asiatic lion has died after kidney failure was discovered during a recent eye procedure.

Specialist veterinary ophthalmologist Dr David Williams, from the University of Cambridge, operated on 10-year-old Sahee's eyelid in August.

At the same time, Hertfordshire Zoo carried out a full health assessment which revealed advanced, irreversible kidney failure and Sahee's condition deteriorated quickly.

After his death was confirmed on Wednesday, the zoo said: "To prevent further suffering and ensure his welfare remained paramount, the difficult decision was made to put him to sleep."

Sahee was born at Le Pal Wildlife Park in France and joined Hertfordshire Zoo in 2025 as one of the inaugural residents of the new Lions of India habitat.

The procedure was needed because his eyelid was rubbing against his eye and scratching the cornea.

During the operation the zoo collected blood samples and swabs to avoid the need for future anaesthesia.

Cassie Jones, head of the cat team, said: "Sahee had some very big shoes to fill when he arrived, becoming our first male lion since the passing of Moto, a much-loved lion who was incredibly popular with both our staff and visitors.

"But it wasn't long before Sahee won the hearts of his keepers and everyone who met him with his big personality, handsome looks and confident, sassy character."

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