Fort Wayne Zoo Lioness Celebrates 20th Birthday
The senior lioness, a long-time resident of the African Journey exhibit, is currently under geriatric medical care.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Wildlife
The Fort Wayne Zoo celebrated the 20th birthday of Ina, a lioness who has resided at the facility since 2009. She is currently housed in the African Journey exhibit alongside her companion, Kiume.
Why it matters
Ina's milestone highlights the specialized geriatric care required for large carnivores as they age in captivity. Managing her chronic health conditions involves consistent monitoring to ensure quality of life for the senior lioness.
Ina has been a resident of the Fort Wayne Zoo for 17 years and is currently under treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease, diagnosed in June 2025. This care plan requires monthly blood draws, biweekly blood pressure checks, and weekly subcutaneous fluids.
The players
Fort Wayne Zoo
An AZA-accredited facility in Indiana that manages regional wildlife conservation and public education programs.
Ina
A 20-year-old lioness who has been a centerpiece of the zoo's African Journey exhibit for nearly two decades.
Kiume
A male lion who has shared a habitat with Ina since early 2025.
The details
To manage her Chronic Kidney Disease, veterinary staff perform regular medical interventions to track her renal health. Beyond these clinical procedures, zookeepers support her cognitive and physical enrichment by providing specialized behavioral stimuli, such as the recent birthday activity involving watermelon and boxes containing meat meals.
Timeline
2009: Ina arrived at the Fort Wayne Zoo.
2009-2016: Ina lived with companion lion Bill.
2016-2024: Ina lived with companion lion Bahati.
June 2025: Ina was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease.
October 23, 2026: Ina celebrated her 20th birthday.
The Home Front
Ina's care mirrors the industry-wide focus on geriatric medicine for captive apex predators under modern Association of Zoos and Aquariums protocols. This approach emphasizes quality-of-life management as zoo populations across the nation continue to age.
If you are a local resident, consider the zoo's public viewing schedule when planning an educational outing to see the exhibit. Observing the care routines for senior animals can offer families practical insights into the commitment involved in maintaining the health of aging pets at home.
The takeaway
Ina's milestone represents a success in providing extended life and comfort for geriatric animals in a managed environment. Residents can support local zoo conservation efforts by participating in seasonal educational programs or supporting the zoo's veterinary care initiatives.
What happens next
Visitors can view Ina and Kiume at the African Journey exhibit through October 31, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local wildlife preservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
