Kofi the African lion dies at Tulsa Zoo

TULSA, Okla. — Animal lovers are mourning the loss of a male African lion that has been on exhibit at the zoo since 2004.

Workers at the Tulsa Zoo announced Monday that died during the weekend.

Employees say Kofi passed away in his exhibit holding area surrounded by his caregivers.

The zoo's animal care and veterinary staff had been monitoring the 18-year-old lion since he was diagnosed with chronic end-stage renal disease.

“We know many people have been able to connect with Kofi over the years in one way or another,” said Joe Barkowski, vice president of animal conservation and science at the zoo. “We are thankful we could offer the opportunity to enjoy him during his final days."

Zoo staff says kidney failure is a common cause of death in older members of the cat family, including domestic house cats.