Colorado zoo holds contest to name lion cubs

The Pueblo Zoo is holding a contest to name its three lion cubs. Since the cubs are South African lions the zoo would prefer to give them South African names. For example, the zoo’s four adult lions are named Jahari, Yatima, Saida, and Ulana. The contest runs from now until February 17, 2007. You can pick up an entry form at the Pueblo Zoo. The winning names will be announced on March 4, 2007.

Zoo keepers say the two older cubs no longer drink milk from a bottle. They’re now on a meat diet. The staff at the zoo has been taking care of the cubs since they were born last fall. The cubs were abandoned by their mothers after they were born.

In January, zoo keepers attempted to introduce the cubs to one of the zoo’s adult lions. The lion was affectionate with the cubs when they were in cages, but unfortunately the lion bit one of the cubs when they were released. Zoo keepers quickly separated the animals. The zoo says the cub was slightly injured, but has since completely recovered.

The zoo plans to continue to keep the cubs separated from the rest of the pride. You can see the cubs on display at the Pueblo Zoo each day from 2 to 3 p.m., weather permitting.

Posted By: David Ortiviz (Updated: 2/7/2007 1:52:07 PM)

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