Bittersweet end to lion’s love story as the pair die at the same time at Los Angeles Zoo

The inseparable elderly lions whose love story touched thousands were put down together so that neither has to live alone.

An iconic love story between two lions has come to a bittersweet end with the pair dying at the same time. Picture: LA Zoo

An iconic love story between two lions has come to a bittersweet end, with the pair dying at the same time.

Hubert and Kalisa were mainstays of the Los Angeles Zoo but were euthanised on Thursday due to declining health issues that had started to impact their quality of life.

The long-time companions were both 21 years old and had well outlived the normal lifespan of a lion which is between 14 and 17 years. The pair were put down together.

An iconic love story between two lions has come to a bittersweet end with the pair dying at the same time. Picture: LA Zoo

Zoo staff said thousands of people had been touched by the lion’s companionship.

“Hubert and Kalisa are an iconic part of the L.A. Zoo experience, and our staff and guests have been touched by their loyal companionship,” CEO and Zoo Director Denise Verret said.

“These affectionate companions came to the L.A. Zoo six years ago, where they quickly charmed themselves into our hearts as we observed their magnificent beauty and unique bond.

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the loss of our African lion pair, Hubert and Kalisa. Animal care and health staff made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize the 21-year-old lions today due to their declining health and age-related illnesses. pic.twitter.com/LsAyyMRYHP

— Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens (@LAZoo) July 30, 2020

“It was often said, you don’t see Kalisa without Hubert being close by. So, while it is truly heart-wrenching that we had to say goodbye to this iconic pair, take comfort in knowing they left together.

“These lions will remain a positive part of our history, and they will be greatly missed.”

Well-wishers took to social media to mourn the pair.

They quickly became favorites among L.A. Zoo guests and staff and were known for their frequent cuddles. “I commend our animal care and veterinary staff for the great care they’ve given this pair, a couple who lived longer than most lions do in human care and the wild.” pic.twitter.com/Icm879M6Lt

— Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens (@LAZoo) July 30, 2020

“I feel so heartbroken so I can’t imagine how hard it is for their zoo family. So sad I didn’t get to see them one last time,” one woman wrote.

“I will miss Hubert and Kalisa. Their unique bond made them truly special to me. I am glad they were together in the end. I hope the zoo will place photos of them at their exhibit,” another added.

Originally published as Bittersweet end to lion’s love story as the pair die at the same time at Los Angeles Zoo