One of country's oldest lioness dies

JAMSHEDPUR: One of the oldest lioness of the country died at the Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) here after prolonged illness, TSZP sources.

22-year-old Sheru's food intake had drastically been reduced since last one year due to kidney and teeth problem and was on liquid food since last fortnight, said Manik Palit, the Veterinary doctor of the zoo.

Palit claimed though the normal life span of the lion was between 16 to 18 years but Sheru survived for over 22-year owing to proper care and food provided by the zoo authorities.

He said Sheru, who was brought here from Nandankanan Zoo in Orissa in February 1994, lost her husband Sher Khan, affectionately known as "Dadu" (Grandpa) in 2006.

TSZP has now two lion left in the zoo including Sheru's daughter "Kamini".

Another lioness "Mohini" had died in September last. Meanwhile, the post-mortem of Sheru was conducted in the presence of the district forest officer and was cremated within the zoo premises.