Five rare Northern African lion cubs have been born at a UK zoo in a major boost for one of the world’s most vulnerable big cat populations.
The litter arrived at Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire late on the evening, with delighted keepers monitoring the births through a hidden “cubcam”.
The tiny cubs were born to five-year-old lioness Waka and four-year-old dad Malik, with keepers confirming that by the following afternoon all five youngsters were feeding well alongside their mum.
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Heartwarming footage shows the sleepy cubs snuggling close to Waka inside their den before beginning to explore their surroundings.
The new arrivals mark the third litter of Northern African lion cubs to be born at the zoo in less than two years as part of an international conservation breeding programme.
Northern African lions are a vulnerable subspecies, with their wild population having declined dramatically due to habitat loss, conflict with humans and poaching.
Conservation breeding programmes aim to safeguard the species’ future and maintain healthy genetic diversity.
Section Team Leader Kathryn Sanders said: “Waka has taken brilliantly to motherhood, and it’s been wonderful to watch her caring for all five cubs.
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“They’ve been feeding well and growing in confidence every day, and we’re delighted to see them doing so well.”
The cubs, born on the 23rd June, are currently spending most of their time behind the scenes bonding with their mother, although visitors may catch glimpses of them as they become more adventurous over the coming weeks.
Whipsnade Zoo says every new birth plays an important role in helping secure the future of the endangered subspecies.
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The zoo, which is owned by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), is home to one of Europe’s Northern African lion breeding groups and has welcomed multiple litters since Malik arrived as part of the conservation programme.
Users reacted to the news online, sharing their thoughts across social media.
Carole said: “Congratulations they are all so beautiful.”
One user made a cheeky reference to the World Cup, saying: “One should be called Jude.”
Another user added: “Oh my! The cute meter broke!”
Sandra said: “Love the big paw coming over them.”
One person added: “Absolutely wonderful to see. Thank you to Whipsnade Zoo!!!”
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