Three cubs made their grand entrance on the night of June 2nd, and the fourth joined the pride early the next morning. That’s right — a full pride party in just over 12 hours! The zoo’s team had been watching closely, using special cameras to ensure Lusaka had all the space and support she needed during labor.
The little ones — two boys and two girls — are already nursing well, gaining weight, and stealing hearts. At their first check-up, vets gave them a glowing bill of health — each weighs around seven pounds of pure lion cuteness!
Three cubs made their grand entrance on the night of June 2nd, and the fourth joined the pride early the next morning. That’s right — a full pride party in just over 12 hours! The zoo’s team had been watching closely, using special cameras to ensure Lusaka had all the space and support she needed during labor.
The little ones — two boys and two girls — are already nursing well, gaining weight, and stealing hearts. At their first check-up, vets gave them a glowing bill of health — each weighs around seven pounds of pure lion cuteness!
🐾 While they’re currently staying cozy off-exhibit with Lusaka for bonding and growing time, the cubs will eventually make their public debut once they’re strong and playful enough to join the rest of the pride outside. (We’ll keep you posted — trust us, you won’t want to miss it!)
🧬 More Than Just Cute — A Conservation Success Story
This litter isn’t just adorable — it’s important. Lusaka and Tiberius were paired through the AZA’s Species Survival Plan, a program designed to protect African lions and ensure healthy, genetically diverse populations under human care.
This marks their third litter together, and with every new cub, hope for the species grows. African lions are currently listed as Vulnerable in the wild, with fewer than 40,000 mature individuals remaining due to poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
That’s why births like these matter so much — they represent a future where lions can continue to roar, thrive, and inspire.
❤️ A Message from the Zoo
Lisa Smith, Interim President & CEO of the Buffalo Zoo, said it best:
“The birth of any animal is exciting — but lion cubs? They’re pure magic! We’re proud to care for this growing pride and thrilled to contribute to the future of lion conservation.”
🎥 Watch the first adorable moments of the cubs in the video below — and get ready to fall in love.