Philadelphia Zoo Lion Merlin is Still the King

The Philadelphia Zoo now has added a new, young male lion to its collection. Fortunately, the arrival of the new male will not result in the ousting or death of the older male, as it usually does in the wild. Merlin is twenty years old, and he has arthritis, cataracts, and other age-related health complications. But he is still able to walk, to eat, to recognize his keepers, and to roar majestically. He still shows an interest in the females in his pride, too. So, even though the quality of life he has now may not match the quality of life of this new, young male, it is still a good life, and Merlin is still the Philadelphia Zoo's Lion King. (This video was recorded December, 10, 2011.)

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• Philadelphia Zoo
• zoos
• Merlin
• Big Cat Falls
• lions
• December
• 2011
• Saturday

[goldeneyesofafrica]

He is still a magnificent male! He still has the drive too which is great and proves he's still happy! :)

[ZooVisitorMM]

@goldeneyesofafrica I agree. He is very relaxed and peaceful. And whenever any of the lionesses give him the "signal", he is ready, willing, and able!

[velocikiller13]

Love the baby's reaction. Nice shot of good old Merlin!

[NickBenger]

Male lions look so wise when they get old!I love the name too!