PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia Zoo announced the death of Tajiri, a 15-year-old African lioness who had been part of its pride since 2012.

Zoo officials said Tajiri had shown a decrease in appetite, prompting a medical examination under anesthesia.

Veterinarians determined she had an aggressive form of cancer. The animal care and veterinary teams made the decision to humanely euthanize her.

"At 15 years old, she was considered geriatric," the zoo said in a statement. The life expectancy of lions is 10 to 14 years in the wild and 15 to 20 years in zoos.

Tajiri joined the Philadelphia Zoo in January 2012 and gave birth to four female cubs with her partner, Makini.

She was also one of the first cats in Big Cat Falls to use the 20-foot-tall feeding pole, "showcasing her ability

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