African Lion Cubs

Welcome Sammie and Sika!

Please join us in celebrating the arrival of two African lion cubs, Sammie and Sika (see-kah), born July 14 to parents Zahra (ZAH-rah) and Maji (MAW-ghee). These two male cubs are currently being hand-reared by Zoo Knoxville’s excellent animal care team and are thriving.

The new arrivals are the second litter for Zahra and Maji this year! Gestation for African Lions is approximately 100-120 days with average litters being 2-4 cubs. Their first cub, Bisky (bis-key), was born February 17. Bisky was initially cared for by Zahra, but when he was approximately three weeks old, she stopped producing enough milk to provide the nourishment he needed. Zoo Knoxville’s animal care team stepped in to hand-rear him, providing around-the-clock care to support his development.

Because Zahra experienced similar difficulty producing sufficient milk for her newest cubs, the animal care team made the decision to bring Sammie and Sika into human care to ensure they received the nutrition and support they needed.

Zoo Knoxville participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ African Lion Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative program that works among accredited zoos to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse and demographically stable population of African lions. Breeding and transfer recommendations are developed using genetic and demographic information to support the long-term sustainability of the population.

The cubs’ names also recognize two important groups who help make their care possible. Sammie’s name was selected by a longtime supporter of Zoo Knoxville, while Sika was named by the keeper staff who care for the lions. Giving the animal care team an opportunity to help select a name is a special way to recognize the dedication, time and expertise they invest in providing exceptional care for the animals every day.