Bristol Zoo’s lion cubs go from strength to strength

Bristol Zoo’s lion cub twins are now 14 weeks old and growing up fast, as the pictures by Mark Eastment show.

The Zoo’s mammal keepers and in-house team of vets have been keeping a close eye on the cubs as they grow up, to make sure they are as fit and healthy as possible.

The cubs have also now been named by their keepers. The male is called Jayendra, or ‘Jay’ for short, and the female is Kalyana, or ‘Kaly’ (pronounced ‘Kally’)

Both names are of Indian origin as these cubs are Asiatc lions. Jayendra means lord of victory, and Kalyana means beautiful.

The pair recently had their second vet check-up to ensure they are in perfect health and to give them their second round of vaccinations for cat flu and infectious enteritis virus - the same vaccinations that would be given to a domestic pet cat.  

Their first health check took place in February, where they were weighed, micro-chipped and sexed, as well as having a general check up, and both cubs have been given a clean bill of health, as explained by Bristol Zoo’s Vet, Rowena Killick.

She said: “The cubs received a physical exam to check they are in good body condition and to look for any signs of ill health such as infection, abnormalities and disease. They were also given microchips for identification purposes. Both of the cubs are strong and healthy so we are extremely pleased.”

Rowena added: “At their first health check the female weighed 6.5kg and the male weighed 6.0kg. A little over a month later, they are both developing well.”

Senior mammal keeper, Karla Tucker, is one of the team of keepers who looks after the lions. She said: “The cubs are doing fantastically well and are growing fast and becoming ever more playful. It’s very rewarding to see them developing so well and becoming much bolder. Shiva is a remarkably good first-time mum. She always makes sure the cubs are safe and warm and near her side.”

She added: “Even though they are still small and look very cute, the cubs are learning well from their parents and are becoming increasingly fearless. Jay, in particular, can be quite cheeky and boisterous, whilst Kaly is more timid, although both cubs play very well together.

“They can often be seen teasing their dad, Kamal, with their playfulness, and are really enjoying exploring their enclosure and getting into mischief in the waterfall.”