Blackpool Zoo is celebrating the arrival of three African lion cubs, the first born at the facility in ten years. The triplets, born on July 26 to first-time parents Hira and Khari, mark a significant milestone for the species, which is currently classified as vulnerable in the wild.
This birth is particularly special for Khari, who was himself the last lion cub born at Blackpool Zoo in 2015. His mother passed away when he was six months old, leaving him and his father, Wallace, as the only father-son pair of lions in the UK. Wallace died in 2022.
Khari was temporarily relocated to ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in 2022 while Blackpool Zoo's Big Cat Habitat underwent a £1.5 million renovation. The improved facility, which opened in 2023, features larger outdoor paddocks, expanded indoor accommodation, and enhanced keeper facilities. Following his return to Blackpool, Khari was introduced to three lionesses, including Hira, who were carefully selected to form a new pride.
The declining population of African lions in the wild is attributed to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and a reduction in natural prey. Experts view the birth of these cubs as a crucial development for conservation efforts.
Hira chose to give birth in the outdoor paddock, and as a result, a temporary, partial closure of the viewing area has been implemented to allow the new family undisturbed time to bond. Adam Kenyon, section manager at Blackpool Zoo, stated that while the zoo and its visitors are delighted, the priority is the welfare of the cubs and Hira. He noted that it is still very early days for the cubs, who remain vulnerable. The zoo will announce the genders and names of the cubs in the coming weeks. The review of the viewing area's partial closure is ongoing and will be assessed daily.