Sad farewell to Folly Farm's majestic Lion, Hugo
Folly Farm has announced the heartbreaking loss of one of its most iconic residents, Hugo the African lion, who passed away this week at the age of 17.
Hugo arrived at the award-winning Pembrokeshire attraction in 2014, alongside his mate Luna and their four cubs – Sola, Zahra, Alika, and Ebele. Described as a 'firm favourite' among both staff and visitors, Hugo quickly became a beloved figure at the zoo, known for his powerful presence and regal demeanour.
Folly Farm confirmed that Hugo had recently experienced a short period of illness. A comprehensive health assessment, carried out by the in-house veterinary team in collaboration with specialist zoo vets, revealed he was suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), a common but irreversible condition in ageing big cats.
His most recent health episode was identified as a uraemic crisis – a dangerous build-up of toxins due to kidney failure. Given his diagnosis and advanced age, the team made the difficult but compassionate decision to prevent further suffering by saying a peaceful goodbye.
'It's never easy to say goodbye to one of our animals, particularly one as special as Hugo,' a spokesperson for Folly Farm said. 'He has been a majestic presence here for over a decade and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.'
Tributes have begun pouring in on social media from visitors and long-time supporters of the zoo, many sharing fond memories and photos of the lion whose roar once echoed across the Pembrokeshire countryside.
Folly Farm has asked the public to extend their sympathies to the dedicated keeping team who cared for Hugo and are now mourning his loss.
Visitors are invited to share their memories of Hugo as the zoo remembers the life of one of its most cherished residents.
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