Hertfordshire Zoo announces death of much-loved Asiatic lion Sahee

An Asiatic lion who became one of the first of his kind to live at Hertfordshire Zoo has died at the age of 10.

Sahee was put to sleep following concerns over his kidney function and a significant deterioration in his health, the zoo said.

The zoo announced the news in a social media post, describing him as their "much loved male Asiatic lion".

First lions at the zoo

Sahee arrived at Hertfordshire Zoo alongside Sonika in 2025.

The pair became the first Asiatic lions to live at the zoo, and the first residents of its Lions of India habitat.

The zoo said Sahee made "an enormous impression" during his time there, quickly capturing the hearts of keepers, staff and visitors with his roar, looks and personality.

Eye operation in August

On 21 August, Sahee underwent a specialist eye procedure after an old injury caused his eyelid to turn inwards, leaving hairs irritating his eye.

Specialist veterinary ophthalmologist Dr David Williams, from the University of Cambridge, joined the zoo's veterinary team to correct the problem.

While Sahee was under anaesthetic, the team also carried out a full health check, including blood samples, swabs and X-rays. He was later returned to his Lions of India habitat.

Difficult decision

The zoo said its animal and veterinary teams made the decision to put Sahee to sleep with his welfare at the heart of it.

In its post, the zoo said: "Following ongoing concerns surrounding his kidney function and a significant deterioration in his health, our animal and veterinary teams made the incredibly difficult decision to put Sahee to sleep, with his welfare at the heart of the decision."

It added: "Thank you to everyone who came to know and love Sahee. He touched so many hearts and will be deeply missed."

Tributes from visitors

The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from visitors who had come to know Sahee.

One visitor said the zoo "won't be the same without your epic roar", while another recalled a rainy day when the downpour gave his mane a "grandad hairstyle".

Others described him as a "cheeky character" and a "beautiful boy", with several sending their condolences to keepers and to Sonika, his companion.

"My heart breaks for you all, including Sonika," one wrote. "Rest in peace Sahee, will miss you!"

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