There’s some big cat news out west, with two African lion cubs settling into life at Werribee Open Range Zoo after being born on Valentine’s Day.
The cubs arrived to eight-year-old mum Asali and nine-year-old pride male Sheru, bringing a welcome boost to the zoo’s growing lion pride, which now sits at eight. Their birth also marks an important moment for the vulnerable species, with conservation efforts more important than ever.
Zookeepers say the cubs are already showing strong early signs of development, sticking close to their mum and growing more curious by the day.
“There is nothing cuter than a lion cub, and the whole team is so excited to see them become more curious every day, play fight with each other and curl up together when they nap,” said life sciences co-ordinator Ben Gulli.
“Asali is being such a wonderful mum and is always grooming the cubs and keeping them tucked close by her side.”
The birth followed a challenging labour, with veterinarians stepping in to deliver the cubs via caesarean section to ensure the safety of both mum and offspring. While Asali initially gave birth to six cubs, only two survived, which reflects what can often happen in larger litters in the wild.
For now, the cubs are being kept out of public view while they bond with Asali in a private den, mirroring natural behaviour where lionesses keep their young hidden until they are strong enough to join the pride.
With fewer than 23,000 African lions remaining in the wild, the arrival of the cubs is a small but meaningful step in ongoing conservation efforts. Visitors can expect updates on when the pair will make their public debut in the coming weeks.
