Monarto Safari Park is mourning the loss of African Lion Kubwa, who was humanely euthanised this month following a rapid decline in his health despite intensive veterinary treatment.

Born on 20 October 2015, Kubwa arrived at Monarto Safari Park from Melbourne Zoo in 2018 with his brothers, Kashka and Kito. Since then, the trio have become a much-loved part of the park and favourites among visitors and the animal care team.

Keepers first noticed Kubwa was unusually lethargic on 16 June and immediately began closely monitoring his condition.

The following day, Kubwa underwent a comprehensive veterinary examination under general anaesthetic, where he received a thorough health assessment, including extensive blood testing. Results revealed a significantly low platelet count, and treatment commenced for a suspected blood infection and blood-borne parasites.

Despite ongoing intensive veterinary care, including a blood transfusion on 23 June, Kubwa’s condition continued to deteriorate. He subsequently developed kidney failure and, following careful assessment by Monarto Safari Park’s veterinary and animal care teams, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanise Kubwa to prevent any further suffering.

Preliminary results from Kubwa’s necropsy have since revealed he was suffering from an aggressive form of lymphoblastic leukaemia. The cancer is believed to have contributed to his rapid decline in health and was likely interconnected with the failure of his kidneys. Further testing, including analysis of bone marrow samples, is underway to provide additional information.

Dr Ian Smith, Director of Monarto Safari Park, said while the preliminary findings had provided some answers, Kubwa’s loss had been deeply felt by the entire team.

“This has been an incredibly difficult time for our keeping and veterinary teams, who cared deeply for Kubwa throughout his life at Monarto Safari Park.”

“From the moment changes in his condition were identified, our teams worked tirelessly to investigate the cause of his illness and provide the highest level of veterinary care possible. While we’re saddened by his loss, Kubwa’s welfare remained our priority throughout every stage of his treatment.”

“The preliminary necropsy findings have given us a better understanding of why Kubwa’s condition deteriorated so rapidly. While that provides some answers for our team, it doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier.”

African Lions (Panthera leo) are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with wild populations continuing to face threats including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and declining prey populations.

Kubwa’s passing will be felt by the dedicated staff who cared for him each day and by the many visitors who came to admire him alongside his brothers over the past eight years. His welfare remained at the centre of every decision made throughout his care, and he will be greatly missed by the Monarto Safari Park team.

Out of respect for the staff involved and the nature of this loss, Kubwa’s keepers and veterinary team will not be available for interviews or further comment.