DUBLIN Zoo is celebrating the recent birth of its latest baby Asian lion cub.
The female cub was born on June 25 to mum Sita, from Mulhouse Zoo in France and dad Kumar, from Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands.
Dublin Zoo’s Asian lion breeding program has been a roaring success, with this latest birth the third since May 2014.
The new arrival will join the zoo's pride of five Asian lions, including sister Kyna and half-brother Kuno.
The births play a significant role in international efforts to protect this endangered species.
There are currently less than 350 Asian lions left in the wild, with the entire wild population now located in the Gir forest in India.
Team leader Ciaran McMahon said: “We are thrilled with our new arrival. These lions are endangered in the wild and it is important for conservation that zoos maintain a viable population of Asian lions.
The female cub is settling in very well. At 10 weeks old she now weighs an estimated 5kg and has developed a strong bond with mum Sita.”
Dublin Zoo have invited the public to help name the cub and are inviting suggestions based on her Asian origins.
Suggestions can be submitted at www.DublinZoo.ie from today.
