Makini, Philadelphia Zoo's last African lion, dies after battle with arthritis

The Philadelphia Zoo is saying goodbye to its last African lion, Makini, who died after a battle with advanced arthritis.

The Zoo announced Makini's death on Friday, saying ever since the death of his longtime partner Tajiri, in Nov. 2025, they have been closely monitoring his health.

The zoo said Makini was humanely euthanized after months of arthritis significantly affected his joints, along with recent significant signs of weakness and difficulty navigating.

"I feel at ease knowing he and Tajiri are reunited and most likely chasing each other around with periodic cuddle breaks," said Animal Care Specialist Christine D. "He will be missed enormously."  

Makini was considered geriatric and had surpassed the typical life expectancy for African lions, which typically live 10 to 14 years, the zoo said. He was 17.5 years old.

Makini was born at the Tulsa Zoo and arrived in Philadelphia in 2011. He and his mate, Tajiri, welcomed four female cubs in June 2014. The cubs are no longer at the zoo.

Makini was a major attraction at the zoo's Big Cat Falls exhibit, which is also home to pumas, tigers and snow leopards.