Fort Wayne zoo's popular lion dies week after cancer found
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo says its nearly 10-year-old lion has died after being recently diagnosed with rapidly spreading cancer.
Zoo officials say veterinary staffers decided to euthanize the lion named Bill on Wednesday as his condition continued to worsen despite treatment.
Bill has been among the zoo's biggest attractions since 2008 when he arrived in Fort Wayne with the lioness named Ina. They've been the only lions at the zoo and popular features of its African Journey section.
Animal programs director Joe Smith says the lion's cancer diagnosis was confirmed last week, but zookeepers had noticed him eating less and appearing listless over the last several months.
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With heavy hearts, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo announces the loss of Bill, the zoo’s male African lion. This follows the recent announcement of Bill’s diagnosis of aggressive cancer, revealed in a medical exam performed Wednesday, March 30.
The experienced animal care staff closely monitored Bill’s health condition from the first sign of concern, and provided him with excellent care. Despite recent treatment, his quality of life continued to decline. The zoo’s veterinary and animal care staff made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize Bill Wednesday, April 6.
In his final days, Bill was able to rest in his behind the scenes area, with access to his outdoor exercise yard. Ina, the female lioness, was with Bill—often lying beside him. Dr. Joe Smith, director of animal programs expresses “Our staff’s excellent care has given Bill a
great quality of life here, and he in turn has enriched the quality of the lives of all of us and the entire Fort Wayne community.”
Bill arrived at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo in December of 2008, and quickly became a zoo favorite with both staff and guests. Since his arrival, 4.4 million guests have visited the zoo. His impact in the community is evident.
“Our mission is connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care. Bill has helped us to serve that mission in every aspect,” says Jim Anderson, zoo director. “Since the announcement of Bill’s health condition, the zoo has received an overwhelming outpouring of love, sympathy, and support from the community. Numerous guests have shared family pictures with Bill, and even sent cards to our staff. It has helped to raise our spirits during this difficult time. “
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo encourages the community to mail cards, photos or accounts of your favorite memories of Bill to the zoo at 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46808. Memories and comments can also be shared on the zoo’s Facebook page,
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