You’ve met the Woodland Park Zoo’s quartet of Lion cubs
several times on ZooBorns since they were born on November 19.  Since then, the two male and two female cubs
have been safely tucked in their den with mom Adia.  But this week they ventured into their outdoor
yard for the first time, practicing for their public debut.

Photo Credits:   Ryan Hawk/Wodland Park Zoo

Adia was the first to step outside, with two of the cubs
emerging alongside her.  Then Adia ducked
back inside as if calling the other two cubs. 
Soon all four were outdoors, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of
this new world.  The cubs stuck together
and stayed close to mom, though they were curious about the zoo staff members
who had gathered to watch through the viewing window. 

Keepers had filled the yard with mossy logs, muddy pits, and
sticks for the cubs to play with, but their favorite toy was mom.  They constantly pounced on her, grabbed her
neck, or slipped under her feet.  New
distractions, like planes flying overhead and cawing birds got the cubs’
attention as well.

After two hours of outdoor play, the cubs were tuckered out
and the family headed inside to rest.  But
you can be sure the cubs will be ready for action when they meet the public for
the first time very soon.

See more photos of the cubs below the fold.