Beloved Franklin Park Zoo lion being treated for pneumonia, officials say

BOSTON — Officials announced on Friday a beloved animal at a Boston zoo is experiencing serious health issues.

Kamaia, a 14-year-old lion, is being treated in an off-exhibit space for severe pneumonia, according to Franklin Park Zoo staff.

Doctors say he has been lethargic of late with a loss of appetite. Two recent exams done by park officials have thus far been inconclusive, a spokesperson said, but the tests did reveal the old lion has underlying chronic medical issues in addition to the pneumonia.

Kamaia is being closely monitored by animal care and veterinary teams, who caution his condition is still serious despite recent improvements in the last 48 hours.

“His dedicated care team has been working so hard to do everything they can to care for him and ensure that he is comfortable,” said Dr. Chris Bonar, Zoo New England Director of Animal Health. “While we are heartened by his recent improvement in activity, demeanor and appetite, his prognosis remains guarded until we see much more improvement.”

Kamaia and his brother, Dinari, have resided at Franklin Park Zoo since 2015. Dinari is healthy and continues to go into the outdoor habitat, park officials say.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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