Five rare lion cubs born at zoo hailed as conservation win

The newborns are the third litter to arrive at Whipsnade Zoo in less than two years as part of the international conservation breeding program.

Born to five-year-old lioness Waka and four-year-old dad Malik, the cubs arrived late on the evening of June 23, with keepers able to monitor the births via a hidden 'cubcam'.

Whipsnade Zoo, located in Bedfordshire, said: "They were delighted to see that by the next afternoon all five cubs were settled and feeding peacefully alongside mom."

Joining their aunt Winta, her daughter Dido, and full sisters Malaika and Kibibi, who were born in January 2025, the five newest additions bring the pride's total to 11 – the largest it has ever been.

Steve Merrick-White, team leader of predators at Whipsnade Zoo, said: "It's fantastic to welcome a new litter of Northern African lion cubs during ZSL's 200th anniversary year. Not only are they part of the conservation breeding program for their species, but they mean our pride is the largest it has ever been.

"This is Waka's second litter, and she really thrives as a mother. She's been so attentive, making sure her cubs are fed, clean and comfortable, and it's been lovely to watch her with them."

Lions can have up to six cubs, but litters are typically between two and four cubs. In January 2025, Waka gave birth to four cubs, with females Malaika and Kibibi still living at the conservation zoo.

Steve continued: "Lions are highly sociable and enjoy living in large groups. We'll need to wait until the five new arrivals are a bit bigger to introduce them to their one-year-old siblings."