Popcorn Park Zoo gave Simba, a struggling lion, a second chance at life

It was 10-years ago when Popcorn Park Animal Refuge in Forked River answered a call that brought it a staple of the organization.

That call led the team to travel more than 800 miles to Alabama to rescue a 10-year-old lion named Simba.

The big cat was in desperate need of a new home as his health was declining from malnutrition and parasites, but soon enough after he was rehabilitated at the nonprofit facility Simba’s personality shined.

“I think he’s one of the most popular attractions. He enjoyed our company, especially with the staff. As soon as he saw you, he’d come running to the fence, to rub on the fence,” said John Bergmann, Executive Director of Popcorn Park.

But sadly, the 20-year old lion died on Monday, April 22, from a combination of old age and renal failure.

Male lions live to mid teens and up, but Simba was a strong and healthy, living a few years past life expectancy. He was known for having and extraordinary roar and his affection by displaying gratitude with his greetings.

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“He always wanted to be near you, his roar was exceptional. You could hear it through out the zoo which made everybody feel good. You know, you heard Simba,” Bergmann said.

Popcorn Park has six big cats at the facility, including two lions and four tigers.

But Simba was different. The way he responded to the staff always felt like a thank you.

“Simba gave back to us," Bergmann said. "We rescue these animals and try to keep them comfortable for the rest of their lives, but the way Simba greeted you every time he saw you, he was giving back to us”

Simba was given a second chance at life and live it happily for 10 years.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Popcorn Park Animal refuge mourns Simba, a rescued lion