Edinburgh Zoo welcomes first lion cubs in seven years

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 19:32 · Archive

Two Asiatic lion cubs were born at Edinburgh Zoo on 11 October, the first births there in seven years. Keepers at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland witnessed the arrival through live cameras in the cubbing den. The announcement was made on 22 October.

First-time mother Bindee is caring for both cubs, whilst father Jay remains involved. Animal team leader Alison MacLean said: 'We are so proud of Bindee and Jay and absolutely thrilled with the beautiful new arrivals! Mum is happily bonding with the little cubs while Jay is his usual chilled-out self.'

Keepers realised Bindee was pregnant when they noticed her stomach had grown larger and her behaviour changed. MacLean noted that the pregnancy confirmation came when Bindee began pacing and adjusting her den. She said: 'We suspected Bindee was pregnant for a little while especially after she has been getting on so well with Jay this summer. There was a mix of nerves and excitement as we waited to see if our suspicions were right.'

The cubs will spend several months in the den before exploring their habitat. The lion enclosure remains closed to the public while the family settles.

How it is being reported

• Edinburgh Zoo celebrates the first lion clubs born in seven years'We are so proud of Bindee and Jay and absolutely thrilled with the beautiful new arrivals!'Edinburgh Live · 22 Oct, 19:15
• Edinburgh Zoo roars with excitement as it welcomes the birth of two lion cubs after a seven-year waitThe cubs were born to first-time mum Bindee on October 11, with keepers watching the arrival through live cameras in the cubbing den.Edinburgh Evening News · 22 Oct, 10:36

In this story: Edinburgh Zoo · Bindee · Jay · Royal Zoological Society of Scotland · Alison MacLean · Edinburgh

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