Local Massachusetts Zoo Mourns Loss of African Lion Nyalla
The Capron Park Zoo and local community are mourning the loss of Nyalla, a beloved 20-year-old African lion who recently passed away.
The Capron Park Zoo and the local Attleboro community are mourning the loss of Nyalla, a beloved 20-year-old African lion who passed away on December 31st, 2024. The zoo announced her death through a Facebook statement on Friday morning. Nyalla, who arrived at the zoo in July 2005 alongside her sister Kayla, had been a cornerstone of the zoo's wildlife family for over 18 years. According to zoo officials, she lived well beyond her expected lifespan. “Although the staff is feeling the immeasurable loss of Nyalla, they take pride in knowing the level of care she received here that allowed her to live well beyond her expected years,” states Capron Park Zoo.
"It is with great sadness that Capron Park Zoo announces the death of our 20-year-old female African Lion, Nyalla.Nyalla, born in November of 2004, was brought to the zoo in July of 2005 along with her sister, Kayla. Ramses, our resident male lion, was introduced to the sisters shortly after. Together these three captured the hearts of the community, animal care staff, and guests near and far," the zoo's statement reads.
The lioness had been managing various health conditions in her later years, including kidney concerns that were first identified in 2014, along with arthritis. Despite these challenges, and even after losing her sister Kayla to chronic kidney disease in 2020, Nyalla maintained relatively stable health until recently.
Zoo staff reported that her decline became noticeable last month when they observed decreased activity levels, though she continued to eat and move around her enclosure. On her final day, keepers noted atypical behavior during morning checks, leading to continuous observation until she passed naturally that afternoon.
The zoo, which welcomes over 120,000 visitors annually, has announced that a complete autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, staff attention will continue to closely monitor Ramses, the resident male lion who shared the enclosure with Nyalla throughout her time at the facility.
Capron Park Zoo has invited community members to share their memories and photos of Nyalla on their social media platforms, creating a virtual memorial for the beloved lioness. To learn more about Capron Park Zoo, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CapronParkZoo.
