Zoo 'overjoyed' as lion cubs increase pride to 10

Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire is celebrating the arrival of four adorable lion cubs, which have increased the pride's total to ten lions. These cubs were born in January and are currently being cared for by their mother, Waka. The cubs are a lovely silvery brown color with black spots on their heads and down their spines, and they have dark, sleepy-looking eyes that make them incredibly cute. The zoo's section manager, Sarah McGregor, expressed her excitement, stating that the keepers are 'overjoyed to have a second litter' of cubs. This new litter follows the birth of three cubs in November, making the total number of baby lions at Whipsnade seven. The zoo is dedicated to the conservation of African lions, as their populations are declining in the wild due to various factors such as farming, hunting, and habitat loss. Waka has quickly adapted to her role as a mother, and the zoo has been monitoring her and her cubs through a hidden camera known as a 'cubcam'. This allows the keepers to observe the cubs without disturbing them. When the cubs reach ten weeks of age, the zoo will conduct health checks to determine their sexes and announce their names. The lion enclosure at Whipsnade had been empty for some time due to the previous lions aging and passing away. In the summer of 2023, the zoo welcomed three new lions: Waka, Winta, and Malik, all of whom are now three years old. Winta gave birth to three cubs in November, and now Waka has added four more to the pride. Ms. McGregor noted that lions are very social animals and thrive in large groups. The new cubs will grow up alongside their half-siblings, providing them with plenty of playmates. Waka and Winta will share parenting responsibilities, just as lions do in the wild. While Waka and her cubs may be staying cozy indoors for a little while longer, visitors will have the chance to see the older cubs playing outside during the Easter season. The zoo is looking forward to welcoming guests to witness the joy of these magnificent animals.