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Three New Boys for Zoo Basel’s Lion Pride

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The pride of African Lions, at Zoo Basel, has increased by three this summer. On May 28, Okoa gave birth to two male cubs, and on June 15, Uma delivered another male cub. The two lionesses’ gave birth to their young in the same area and are raising them together. Mbali is father to all three boys and has proven a playful participant in their upbringing. 

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4_11411892_892164597487948_7789860505042479653_oPhoto Credits: Zoo Basel

African Lions are currently classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. There has been an estimated population decline of 30-50%, in the last 20 years. Noted causes for the decline include disease and human interference. Habitat loss and conflicts with humans are considered the most significant threats to the species. The remaining populations are often geographically isolated from one another, which can lead to inbreeding, and consequently, reduced genetic diversity.

Zoo Basel supports the Big Life Foundation, which works in the Amboseli-Tsavo ecosystem in Kenya to protect the Lions. The Zoo is also a participant in the EAZA Endangered Species Breeding Programme for African Lions.

More incredible pics, below the fold!

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3 responses to “Three New Boys for Zoo Basel’s Lion Pride”

  1. Carolyn Croll Avatar
    Carolyn Croll

    Magnificent pictures of these magnificent Lions.
    Can’t help thinking of Cecil the Lion and his family in Zimbabwe living their Lion lives until corrupt,
    “entitled” human beasts decided to murder Cecil for a thrill. It particularly bothers me that 2 so-called
    DOCTORS,supposedly medically trained to help heal and save lives and do no harm, take it upon themselves to murder other living creatures for “sport”. Depraved murder.
    Hoping these beautiful Lions get to live their lives fully protected by these other humans who appreciate and love them as fellow travellers on this planet.

    Reply
  2. Kathy Christman Avatar
    Kathy Christman

    Agree. All these big animals are at least threatened with extinction — how can anyone justify killing even one?! And how can Zimbabwe and other countries justify allowing — and benefitting from — the hunting and murder of these magnificent, threatened creatures? I understand the doctor was proud of his bow-and-arrow hunting skills, but he didn’t kill Cecil the first time and had to try again (I’ve read conflicting reports that Cecil was ultimately killed with either an arrow or a gun). That’s murder. Can’t he find a realistic online game for hunting? I hope the extreme reaction of the public to his behavior will stop him from killing again.

    Reply
  3. Cynthia Avatar
    Cynthia

    Beautiful family! Bless these precious animals and the people who take care of them.

    Reply

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