Skybed Scar, a lion in Kruger National Park, South Africa, was so emaciated that he was just skin and bones, exhausted and unable to walk due to starvation.

This heart-touching image captures the moment the once majestic “king of the jungle” in Kruger National Park, South Africa “withered away” from hunger. Photo: CNA.

This old lion has become exhausted due to not having food for many days. Photo: CNA.

The image of him emaciated, reduced to “skin and bones” makes anyone who sees him feel sorry and sympathetic. Photo: CNA.

Skybed lion Scar is so emaciated that he has difficulty standing. Photo: CNA.

These images were captured by photographer Larry Anthony Pannell, 64 years old. Photo: CNA.

Mr. Pannell said that the lion had gone to a small pool in the grass to drink water. After drinking the water, it could not stand. Photo: CNA.

Skybed lion Scar walks unsteadily with a hissing sound in his throat.

According to Pannell, Skybed Scar is probably living his last days. No one brings him food and he is too weak to hunt. Photo: CNA.

Skybed lion Scar no longer has the strength to chase away the intruder into its territory. Photo: CNA.

The lion eventually passed away on the grass. Sharing about this moment, Pannell said: “We didn’t know what to say, we just sat there for a long time and stroked its eyes. I didn’t want it to feel lonely.” Photo: CNA.

Photographer Pannell shared: “Witnessing this moment reminded me of my mother’s last moments in the hospital. I was by her side when she passed away.”