Tomo, an African lion, died this morning at the age of 15. He was being treated by veterinary staff for age-related issues, but his quality of life recently declined rapidly and the decision was made to humanely euthanize him, zoo officials said.
Tomo came to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in 2006 from the San Diego Zoo as part of a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) African Lion Species Survival Plan® (SSP). Since his arrival in Central Ohio, Tomo fathered three litters, including the most recent two litters that totaled six surviving cubs born in 2015. Tomo was also a grandfather of 11 and great-grandfather of five.
