Mother Kali and Father Arnold have a family. The two welcomed a pair of lion cubs January 11.
Kali gave birth to three cubs, but sadly, as sometimes happens, one did not make it. Animal care staff say mom and the remaining two cubs, who are behind the scenes bonding, are healthy and active.
“The cubs’ birth is a huge success for the Lion Species Survival Plan, which ensures healthy, genetically diverse populations of lions within Association of Zoos and Aquariums institutions. Half of Africa’s lions have disappeared in the past 25 years, and the species faces growing threats from poaching, loss of prey, and habitat destruction,’’ says Vice President & Managing Director of Audubon Zoo and Audubon Park Steve Marshall.
Audubon hopes having the cubs at the Zoo will help connect visitors to this important species and instill in guests the need to protect them and save them from extinction.
“The birth of the cubs is the culmination of hard work by a team of people and a success for everyone in New Orleans,” says Curator of Large Mammals Joe Forys.
"The lion cubs are now a part of New Orleans and watching them grow will be an amazing experience for every guest who comes to see them."
Kali and the cubs will stay behind the scenes for now to give them time to bond, receive vaccinations, and be gradually introduced to the rest of the pride.
The cubs will primarily stay in their den, and Kali will have access to other areas behind the scenes, where the addition of the den box gives her a sense of security for her and her cubs.
Although the cubs won’t make their debut for at least twelve weeks, Audubon supporters can check Audubon social media for regular updates, photos and videos.