For the past two decades, visitors of the Amarillo Zoo have been thrilled to meet one of the more iconic residents in zoo history – Sarai, a female African lion who quickly became a community favorite upon arriving in Amarillo in 2006.
In addition to her stature as queen of the jungle, Sarai endeared herself to zoo staff and visitors with her endearing personality and her ability to consume mass amounts of steak. In 2012 at the age of six, Sarai demolished the 72-ounce Big Texan steak challenge, devouring the steak in 80 seconds. She bested the previous record holder, a travelling circus tiger who visited Amarillo in 1999.
Sarai died of natural causes Thursday at the age of 20. Sarai was one of the oldest African lions under human care in the United States. With a typical life expectancy of 10-12 years without human interference, and 15-18 years in zoological settings, Sarai had a tough spirit and strong will, reaching her advanced age with the help of zoo staff and a devoted veterinarian.
Sarai called Amarillo home along with her siblings. Solomon, a male lion, passed away in June 2025. Her sister, Sheba, remains at the zoo.
“Sarai and her siblings joined us in 2006 after spending their early days in a wildlife sanctuary,” said City of Amarillo Director of Parks and Recreation Michael Kashuba. “Our lions are older than most of our lifeguards. Sarai’s longevity was a testament to the love and care she received daily from zoo staff.”
Zoo visitors are encouraged to share stories and photos of Sarai on social media to honor her memory and the indelible mark she left on the zoo community.
For more information contact City of Amarillo Media Relations Manager Dave Henry at 806-378-5219 or by email at david.henry@amarillo.gov.