Camera Critters: Celesto

Celesto was born at the Houston Zoo in 1990 to parents Bruno and Kili 

who arrived at the zoo with a third lion, Lindi, after being confiscated by authorities 

from a Kansas farm.

 

Earlier this week, at 22 years of age, Celesto passed away from kidney disease.

She was among the oldest lions in the country.

Lions in zoos generally live into their late teens.

Her health had been declining over the last few years.

Knowing that her time was limited,

the zoo started a successful search for young lionesses to be added to the lion family.

Jonathan has three girls to keep him company.

But, I'm sure, like us all -- he will miss Celesto. 

Celesto was feisty and strong-willed.

Jonathan is the King, and Celesto was the Queen.

She ruled wisely and well.

A big thank you to Misty for hosting Camera Critters.

Camera Critters

The hostess for Camera Critters is the lovely Misty. Be sure you visit.

I do love kitties. Here are a few shots of some large cats.

Photography morning at the Houston Zoo with the Lion Pride.

This is Johnathan and I believe I've introduced him to you before.

Cali and Johnathan. Cali is the last from the original pride. She is in her late teens.

Handsome couple, aren't they?!
Cali is finally putting up with the youngster, Johnny.

I wonder if she saw something in the crowd she wanted for lunch?

Because of Cali's age, three new, young girls have been added to the pride.
Here are two of them playing tug-of-war with their keepers at the training window.
The girls are about 18 months old.
They were given treats (large bones) after their play.

Camera Critters 54

Last week I shared one of my Little Cats.

This week I'd like to share with you one of my favorite Big Cats.

This is Jonathan and he is magnificent.

He has a story. He was raised as a pet and then got too big.
(Well, DUH!)
He was lucky. The Houston Zoo had room for him and now he lives here.

The lions have a wonderful area to roam.
This is their door. Really cool.
The gate lowers (where the keeper is standing).
From here the keepers can *play* with the lions.
They go through different commands.
This one makes Jon stand on his hind legs
and allows the keepers to check his belly area.
Jon was declawed by his former owner.
Occasionally Callista will swipe Jon a good one!

Jonathan, the King!

We took this picture last week.
For those who have cats, this pose will look familiar!
Life is good!

Thanks for stopping by.
Have a great weekend.