An animal park has announced a lioness has died after giving birth to two cubs.

Howletts Wild Animal Park, near Canterbury, announced on social media that Grace passed away despite the veterinary team’s best efforts.

Rangers spotted on video footage that Grace had been in discomfort overnight, with the vetinary team taking action straight away.

However, the feline was unable to regain her strength and later in the day died with mate Khari by her side.

“What started as a cause for celebration ended in tragedy, due to complications from giving birth,” a statement on Howletts’ Facebook page read.

“To say Grace will be dearly missed is an understatement. Whilst it is always sad when an animal in our care passes away, from the day she arrived, Grace's character made her stand out and she quickly became a favourite amongst her keepers. Always happy to see us, Grace would immediately come to say hello the moment we called her name.”

The post went on to say the team at Howletts were so excited when they found out Grace was pregnant, and the lioness’ calm demeanour made them confident she would be a great mother, but it was not to be.

“The positive we can take away is that the legacy continues,” it read.

The statement continued: “She was able to nurse her two cubs before she passed. They are now having to be hand-reared and, so far, are doing really well. We will provide updates on their development in due course.

“In the meantime, on behalf of the whole carnivore team, we would like to thank you for all of your support and would be very grateful if you could share any photos and stories you may have of Grace.”