Beloved Amarillo Zoo Lion Solomon Dies at 20, Surpassing All Odds

The Amarillo Zoo has had its fair share of animals reside there. Many of them have captivated the people who come through it, but there always seems to be one or two that people gravitate to when they visit.

One of those is Solomon the lion. A majestic African lion that captivated those who saw him with his loud roar and the way he moved around had visitors just watch him for extended periods of time.

Solomon The Lion Has Passed Away

Well, the sad news came down this morning. Solomon the lion has passed away at the age of 20. He spent his entire life at the Amarillo Zoo, and for each one of those 20 years, he entertained the masses that came to see him.

He arrived at the Amarillo Zoo from a wildlife sanctuary in 2006 and has been in Amarillo ever since.

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How Long Do These Lions Typically Live

This is where it becomes amazing. In the wild, these African lions typically have a life span of 10-12 years. If they are in human care, they tend to make it between 15-18 years.

Solomon was special and outlasted both of those averages by getting through his 20th birthday. Solomon passed away due to natural causes.

What About His Companions

Solomon didn't live alone. He had two companions with him, Sarai and Sheba.

According to zoo officials, they are adjusting to life without Solomon at the moment, but "receiving extra attention, enrichment and care" as they begin to adjust to life without Solomon being around.