By KHT Staff. Image via KH Zoo.
KAOHSIUNG — The Shoushan Zoo (壽山動物園) announced the passing of its iconic African lion, Er-ge (二哥), who died peacefully on Monday morning, April 13, at the age of 23. Zoo officials noted that Er-ge’s age was equivalent to roughly 100 human years, a significant milestone for his species.
Known affectionately by staff and visitors as ‘Second Brother’ (Er-ge), the lion’s death follows a recent string of losses for the zoo’s senior residents. African elephant Ali (阿里) died on Feb. 14, 2026, at age 52, and white tiger Zhao-hai (昭海) passed away on Feb. 22 at age 19, an age equivalent to approximately 90 human years.
Care and medical history:
Er-ge was introduced to Shoushan Zoo from Leofoo Village (六福村) in 2010 and became a cornerstone of the park’s exhibits for over a decade. In his final years, the lion suffered from several chronic conditions common in aging animals, including glaucoma, abnormal liver function, anemia, spinal degeneration, and a dental pulp infection. Despite multiple surgeries and treatments, the medical team eventually shifted focus to quality of life by providing soft foods and habitat optimizations to accommodate his declining physical functions.
Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau (觀光局) Director Kao Min-lin (高閔琳) stated that Er-ge’s long life was a testament to the zoo’s commitment to species conservation and professional senior animal care. She emphasized that the park’s ability to accompany the lion through his final journey with a robust medical and care mechanism reflected a deep respect for life.
Lee You-yi (李宥逸), the zookeeper who cared for Er-ge for years, described the lion as an important partner who felt like family. While Lee expressed profound sadness at the loss, he acknowledged that life has a natural end and that the majestic lion had finally found peace.
