Law Offices of Susan Correia-Champa, LLC

11/24/2022

10/23/2022

Our Zoo family is mourning the loss of Luke, an African lion who was humanely euthanized Oct. 19. He was 17 years old. The median life expectancy for African lions in human care is 17 years. . .
Luke was trained to voluntarily participate in awake health exams, including routine weigh-ins and blood draws. On Oct. 14, keepers noted that Luke had lost 8 kilograms, or 17.6 pounds, and he was experiencing repeated episodes of lack of appetite. During an exploratory exam Oct. 19, Zoo veterinarians found several cystic masses throughout his liver. They also found moderate-to-severe progression of his spinal condition—several of his cervical vertebra had fused. Given these findings, Luke’s overall long-term quality of life was considered poor, and the animal care team decided to humanely euthanize him. . .
Born at a private reserve in South Africa in 2005, Luke arrived at the Zoo in October 2006 following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan. Together with his mates, Naba and Shera, Luke sired 13 surviving cubs from four litters. Zoo visitors can see Shera and her offspring Amahle, Shaka and Jumbe on exhibit or on the Zoo’s Lion Cam. . .
“Luke was truly the ‘king’ of the Great Cats exhibit,” said Craig Saffoe, curator of Great Cats, Kids’ Farm, Claws & Paws Pathway and Andean bears. “He was gentle with his mates, Naba and Shera, and an extremely patient and protective father to all 13 of the cubs he sired. Luke has left a lasting legacy, not only in the cubs he contributed to his species’ survival, but also in the millions of visitors who were able to gain a deeper knowledge of and appreciation for African lions because of who he was as the patriarch of his pride.”

12/23/2021

Happy Holidays

11/04/2021

Experiencing a family law issue? You can rely on the Law Offices of Susan Correia-Champa for clear, knowledgeable legal guidance and representation. With over 30 years of family law experience, we know what it takes to protect your rights. You'll have our compassion, as well as our counsel.

12/17/2018