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Lion cubs get first health check-up

Posted by: Gigi Allianic, Communications


It’s a boy! And a girl! And a boy! And a girl!


Last week, our four lion cubs received their first health check-up and the exam revealed the quadruplets are healthy and that we have two males and two females on our hands.


Our team of veterinarians performed the exam, which included a weigh-in, fecal sampling and an overall assessment of their health. They’ll get the first of a series of vaccinations at the next exam coming up in a few weeks. The cubs turn four weeks old this Saturday.


Each cub weighs between 8 and 9 pounds, which is in the normal weight range for their age. Vets noted that the cubs had full, round bellies, meaning they’re nursing regularly. Adia continues to show excellent maternal skills, and she has herself some robust, healthy cubs.


Mom and cubs remain in an off-view maternity den that allows the family to bond in a quieter environment. The cubs will go out in the public exhibit when they are older and outdoor temperatures reach a minimum of 50 degrees. Until then, zoo-goers can watch recorded video of the cubs at a kiosk stationed at the lion exhibit or at Zoomazium. We’re also posting updated footage and images here and at www.zoo.org/lioncubs.

Photos by Ryan Hawk/Woodland Park Zoo.

Comments

shelly said…
How do you get them away from their Mom? Does she let you grab them willingly because she knows you, or do you have to get her away from them firs & sneak them when she's not looking?
I bet they let Adia outside for some exercise and then go get the babies!! Can HARDLY wait till Spring!!!
Shelly -
We have been working with Adia to get her comfortable with shifting outside for a little while at a time, which allows us access to the cubs briefly. We handle them as little as possible during these shifts other than for check-ups so that we don't interfere with their bonding.
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