A young lioness has died aged just two after falling critically ill at a UK reserve.
Amali, who lived at Port Lympne Reserve in Hythe, Kent, passed away after developing a life-threatening intestinal obstruction.
The big cat underwent emergency treatment carried out by the reserve’s veterinary team, but failed to recover.
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Staff later made the difficult decision to put her to sleep to prevent further suffering.
The animal park announced the loss in an emotional statement shared with visitors and supporters, as reported by Need To Know.
It said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our lioness, Amali.
“She passed away on 20th May after receiving emergency surgery from our incredible veterinary team.
“Amali developed a life-threatening intestinal obstruction and became critically ill.
“Our veterinary team performed emergency surgery, followed by intensive post-operative care.
“Despite the tireless efforts of both our keepers and veterinary staff, her condition continued to deteriorate and the difficult decision was made to euthanise her to prevent further suffering.”
Amali was born at the reserve in 2024 alongside her sister, Jamila.
She was the daughter of lions Lily and Hunter and had spent her entire life at the Kent attraction.
According to the reserve, she quickly became a favourite among keepers and visitors because of her confident and spirited personality.
The park said: “From a young age, Amali was known for her confidence and feisty personality, making her a memorable character among keepers, guests, and her own family alike.”
Just months before her death, staff shared updates on Amali and Jamila as they explored their enclosure and grew increasingly adventurous.
In one post, the reserve said the cubs had mastered climbing to the very top of a lookout point inside their habitat and had developed a fascination with their father Hunter’s swishing tail.
The reserve added: “Over the past two years, both Amali and Jamila have become central figures within the pride, and Amali’s larger-than-life character will be deeply missed.
“We are sure her loss will be felt just as profoundly by the pride as it is by all of us who had the privilege of caring for her.”
The park said its thoughts remain with the keepers and veterinary staff who worked to save her.
Port Lympne Reserve, near Hythe, is home to a number of endangered species and is known for its conservation breeding programmes.
