Happy birthday, Zawadi! Lion at Oregon Zoo turns 18

PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) – One of the oldest male lions in North America celebrated his birthday over the weekend at the Oregon Zoo.

Zawadi Mungu turned 18 on Sunday and celebrated with some of his favorite treats. According to the zoo, male lions rarely live past 12 in the wild.

“We have a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, care staff and maintenance workers who collaborate to give Zawadi the best life possible,” said Kelly Gomez, who oversees the zoo’s Africa area. “He’s a pampered cat, as he should be at his age.”

The zoo says staff noticed some weakness earlier this year in Zawadi’s back legs. Workers added ramps inside the lion habitat to help him safely climb around.

The veterinary team also came up with a regimen of physical therapy and cold-laser treatments to help strengthen Zawadi’s muscles and reduce inflammation. The zoo says results have been promising.

“Zawadi is doing very well with his therapeutic treatments,” said Dr. Carlos Sanchez, the zoo’s head veterinarian. “His legs are stronger, his mobility is improving, and he seems to be feeling good.”

Zawadi has been at the Oregon Zoo since 2009. He has fathered two litters of cubs, and two of them – Niara and Mashayu – still live at the zoo.

Copyright 2025 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.