Christopher the lion has passed away

DORCHESTER, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Christopher the lion, who lived at the Franklin Park Zoo, has died.

Staff members at the Franklin Park Zoo are mourning the loss of the beloved lion named Christopher. The 21-year-old lion was "humanely euthanized" Thursday. He had been suffering with a chronic cystic disease of the liver, arthritis and declining kidney function over the last two years. Zoo staff decided to put him to sleep for "quality of life" reasons.

"The veterinary and animal management staffs took extraordinary care of Christopher as his age-related issues mounted. With our older animals, we do everything we can to ensure they enjoy a comfortable life as they continue to age, which is often far longer than the median life expectancy," said Dr. Eric Baitchman, Zoo New England Director of Veterinary Services. "As Christopher aged, his dedicated zookeepers continued to utilize the well-established training programs. This played an integral role in assisting the animal management and veterinary staffs in closely monitoring his health, and developing and carefully refining treatment plans. Christopher will be greatly missed by so many."

Christopher came to Mass. from Florida where he was born. He turned 21 in July last year, and was one of the oldest lions in this country. Lions normally live to be about 16 or 17.

"He will be deeply missed by staff as well as the many visitors who came to see him throughout the years. He was an incredible ambassador for his species and people were drawn to his impressive roar, which could be heard throughout the zoo. Perhaps the only thing more impressive than his roar was his imposing physical presence. Christopher truly was the king of the Franklin Park Zoo," said John Linehan, Zoo New England President and CEO.

Cox Media Group