EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Hodari, a 7-year-old lion from the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, is recovering after undergoing an MRI procedure at a local hospital to diagnose a suspected condition.
According to the news release by the City of El Paso, Hodari, a nearly 500-pound African male lion, began showing signs of temporary mobility issues, lethargy and tenderness while walking.
The Zoo’s veterinary healthcare team conducted multiple diagnostic tests, but an MRI was necessary to get a clear view of Hodari’s neck and spine for a suspected spinal condition.
To complete the procedure, Hodari was transported, under sedation, to the Hospitals of Providence Memorial Campus after hours, the news release read.
Hodari was accompanied by the veterinary healthcare team and Veterinary Neurology Consultant Dr. Antonio Bowens.
According to the news release, Dr. Bowens oversaw the imaging process and evaluation. Hodari is now recovering after receiving advanced medical care.
“We are incredibly grateful to The Hospitals of Providence for providing the resources and support needed to perform Hodari’s MRI,” Joe Montisano, director of the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, said. “The team there was exceptional in coordinating the logistics safely. We are pleased to report that Hodari is doing well. While we are awaiting final results, the initial readings are very encouraging and have already given us valuable insight into his condition and treatment options.”
Hodari is from the Pueblo Zoo in Pueblo, Colorado, and joined the El Paso Zoo in 2022.
According to his caretakers, Hodari is a “responsive, well-mannered lion with a strong connection to his zookeeper team.”
“Hodari is a stunning male lion, and we are excited for our guests to continue learning about African lions through him for many years to come,” Montisano said.
For more information about Hodari and the other animals at the El Paso Zoo, you can visit their website.
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