Keepers reveal sexes of zoo's newborn lion cubs

Keepers have revealed the sex of four lion cubs born at a zoo in January.

The northern African lions, now aged 12 weeks, consisted of three females and one male, Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire said.

Section manager Sarah McGregor said her team was "delighted" with the litter's health after their first check-up, having settled in well to the park's pride of 10.

Staff have now asked for the public's help in naming the quartet, who have been added to a conservation breeding programme for vulnerable species.

The cubs were microchipped and vaccinated during a medical examination which confirmed their sexes.

Their arrival followed another litter born to different parents in November, whose first steps were captured on a hidden camera.

Ms McGregor said: "The lion cubs' first health check is an exciting milestone, and we are delighted that all four are doing well."

She said the clean bill of health was a "testament" to their mother, Waka, who arrived at the zoo in 2023 with fellow lioness Winta and male lion Malik.

"Waka has proven to be a doting and attentive mother," the keeper added.

Three quarters of African lion populations are declining, which the World Wildlife Fund blames on habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and poaching.

Two of the zoo's cubs will be named by schoolchildren, with a prize draw held to name the remaining pair.

"It's been wonderful to have so many people visit us to see the cubs, and the excitement that they bring," Ms McGregor said

"Our lions are really important for helping to educate our visitors not only about the threats lions face in the wild, but also how the public can help us protect the planet and create a world where wildlife thrives."

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