Boboo, an 8-year-old African lion, was found to have an aggressive form of cancer involving both kidneys and the spleen, the Phoenix Zoo said. The cancer was aggressive that during his annual exam just a month before, Boboo showed no sign of illness, the zoo said.
Boboo came to Phoenix from the Columbus Zoo in Columbus, Ohio back in 2019, as a 3-year-old cub.
"He was well loved by his keepers, Zoo staff, and guests, and the Zoo will certainly be quieter without his roars and calls," the Phoenix Zoo said in a news release.
Boboo's legacy is alive at the Phoenix Zoo, however: two cubs were sired by Boboo and the zoo said both are doing well and exceeding expectations with their growth.
"This was the first litter sired by Boboo, so we are thankful that his genes will contribute to the Species Survival Plan population," the Phoenix Zoo said. "We are comforted by the fact that he became a part of his own pride this year, and his legacy will live on through his and Zuri’s cubs."
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.
