Memphis Zoo Male Lion, Denver Zoo Sea Lion Die in Separate Incidents

Nick, an 18-year-old sea lion from the Denver Zoo, died at the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C. while awaiting return to Denver after the zoo rebuilt its sea lion habitat. Nick had been rescued as a newborn and was known for his large size, playful spirit, and booming bark. His death followed a veterinary procedure during which his heart stopped, and resuscitation efforts failed. Meanwhile, Thabo, the only male lion at the Memphis Zoo, died at age 16 following surgery to remove a painful bladder stone; he stopped breathing during recovery despite efforts to save him. Thabo was a beloved figure at the Memphis Zoo, known as "the face of the zoo" and greeting millions of visitors over nearly 15 years. Both animals were mourned deeply by their caretakers and communities for their unique personalities and contributions to their zoos' environments.