Zoo Knoxville Welcomes African Lion Cubs

We’re celebrating the arrival of two African lion cubs, Sammie and Sika, born July 14 to parents Zahra and Maji. The two male cubs are currently being hand-reared by Zoo Knoxville’s 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, 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.

“We’re so proud of Zahra and grateful that she has given birth to three healthy cubs this year,” said Terry Canon, Curator of Carnivores at Zoo Knoxville. “She’s had some challenges producing enough milk for her cubs, but our team was prepared to step in and give them the care they needed. They’re thriving, and it’s exciting to know these three boys are also contributing to the future of a healthy and genetically diverse African lion population.”

As Sammie and Sika continue to grow, Zoo Knoxville’s animal care team is evaluating several options for their future social development. One possibility is eventually introducing the two brothers to Bisky, allowing the three young males to live together as they continue to grow and develop. A decision has not been made, and any introductions would be carefully planned and based on the behavior, development, health and safety of all three cubs.

Eventually, the animal care team will also evaluate whether introductions with Zahra and Maji are appropriate. Because all three cubs required hand-rearing at a young age, introductions with the adult lions require careful consideration.

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.

Keepers, veterinary staff and other animal care experts will continue monitoring the cubs’ progress and consulting with the African Lion SSP and other zoological professionals as they determine the best path forward.

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.