Taronga Western Plains Zoo welcomes the birth of three cubs

Taronga Western Plains Zoo has announced the birth of three lion cubs. Take a look at the new arrivals.

The first pictures of three new lion cubs have been unvieled following their birth last month at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

The trio were born on October 4, with two cubs born between 9pm and 10pm while the third arrived a few hours later.

The cubs are the second litter from breeding pair Marion and Lwazi, after Imani, Mara and Amali were born in April last year.

Senior keeper Melanie Friedman said the cubs have been hitting their milestones and have already had their first vet check.

“We can confirm there’s two boys and a girl, their eyes are open and they’re all weighing in around five kilograms,” Ms Friedman said.

Three lion cubs at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Photo: Megan Lewis.

“They’re currently behind the scenes bonding with mum, getting to know all the ins and outs of being a lion.”

Keepers monitored the mother in the weeks leading up to the birth because of complications with her first litter which required an emergency caesarean.

Three lion cubs at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Photo: Megan Lewis.

“We were up very, very late watching but it was very exciting that we didn’t have to intervene, she delivered them all naturally – it was a really joyous moment,” Mrs Friedman said.

“Lions are not an endangered species, but their numbers are declining in the wild, so every birth is important.

Three lion cubs at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Photo: Megan Lewis.

“Being an imported lioness from America, Marion brought new genetics into our region, so this litter of cubs is really important for the regional breeding program.”

The cubs will receive their vaccinations, before Marion introduces them to their father and three older sisters.

Three lion cubs at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo. Photo: Justine Powell.

Ms Friedman said the cubs will not be on exhibit for the next couple of months because of the introduction and bonding process, however the three elder sisters are at the Lion Pride Lands.

Marion arrived from the United States in 2018 and was introduced to Lwazi in 2021 and the relationship has paid dividends for the zoo.

The three cubs are yet to be named.