Britain’s ‘oldest lion’ Kamal dies as he’s put down at zoo aged 16 – leaving behind grieving lonely mate

BRITAIN’S oldest Asiatic lion has died at the age of 16, leaving behind his grieving long-term mate. Kamal, whose mighty roar echoed across Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park each day, was a beloved favourite among keepers and visitors alike. Kamal (left) with his long-term mate Rani Credit: Jam Press/Jimmy's Farm The iconic lion was one of the oldest in the UK Credit: Jam Press/Jimmy's Farm Kamal was put down after old age compromised his quality of life, with his mate Rani surviving him. Park staff and veterinary professionals made the difficult decision to end his suffering after determining his welfare could no longer be maintained, ensuring he passed away peacefully. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The wildlife park’s team is now closely monitoring and supporting Rani as she adjusts to life without her companion. Born alongside his twin brother Bhanu at Germany’s Magdeburg Zoo in 2010, Kamal was one of the oldest lions in the UK by the time of his death. Kamal was known for his ‘unmistakable roar’ Credit: Jam Press/Jimmy's Farm He was sadly put to sleep Credit: Jam Press/Jimmy's Farm His journey took him to Assiniboine Park Zoo in Canada before he arrived in the UK in 2016. Kamal’s relocation formed part of a crucial European breeding programme designed to safeguard the endangered Asiatic lion population. Settling at Chessington World of Adventures, Kamal was paired with Rani -whose name translates to “queen” in Sanskrit – and the duo bonded instantly. During their first year together, they welcomed three female cubs, Anala, Ramari, and Kesari, who later moved to Terra Natura Zoo in Benidorm to continue the species’ breeding efforts. Most read in The Sun In October 2025, the ageing couple were moved to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park in Wherstead, Suffolk. They were given an expansive reserve to enjoy their final retirement years together. The park said: “As Kamal entered the later stages of his life, our team and veterinary professionals monitored him closely. “When it became clear that the effects of old age were impacting his quality of life, the decision was made to say goodbye. “As always, Kamal’s welfare was our absolute priority and we ensured he was able to pass peacefully and without suffering.” Television presenter and farmer Jimmy Doherty said: “When Kamal arrived with us last October, our aim was simple: to give him the peaceful retirement he deserved. “He settled in well, quickly becoming a firm favourite with both our team and the thousands of visitors who came to admire him. “His unmistakable roar around the park is something I’ll never forget.” He added: “It was an honour to care for such a magnificent lion and to play a part in his remarkable story. “Rest easy, old friend.” The park said it felt “privileged” to have provided Kamal with a retirement home and described his age as an “incredible milestone” for an Asiatic lion. Staff are now concentrating on Rani’s welfare. A spokesperson said: “She remains in the care of our dedicated team, who will continue to monitor her closely over the coming days and weeks. “We will ensure she receives all the care, attention and support she needs as she adjusts.” The park concluded its tribute with a line from The Lion King: “We are all connected in the great circle of life.” Comment now