Comments on: Mothering, Lion Style

By: Lee Mussmann

Lee Mussmann — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 03:58:08 +0000

I visited the San Diego zoo many years ago with my three small children. They are now grown with not so small children of their own and I still remember the visit as one of the most exciting times in my life. I remember one particular incident that amazed me then, and still does to this day. I was standing by a fence when a streak of an animal zapped by and I was in shock. An employee explained to me it was a cheetah and they run exceptionally fast. I’m from Kansas and never even imagined I would see something at the San Diego Zoo that would remain with me for the rest of my life. Thank you for your web site. It brings back wonderful memories.

By: Deb

Deb — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 15:08:57 +0000

I got the following from John Ball Zoo today regarding the lion girls. I bet the girls have some shaggy coats from the change in temperature.

The girls are being housed in the animal hospital until their new holding area is totally completed! Since it’s too cold for them to be outside anyway, there’s no need to move them anywhere until that. I also understand that they want to introduce Docha, the male, to the holding area FIRST so that he has some territorial ” ownershipâ€ before the two girls are then introduced. Then, once they are all situated they’ll start what is called ” the howdy’sâ€â€¦. The male and the females will be able to see, smell and hear each other, but will not be able to get together. That will last as long as it takes and eventually we hope it’ll be one happy pride of three!!!

Moderator’s note: Thank you for sharing this information with us, Deb!

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 19:34:25 +0000

Hey Marcia,
At the WAP yesterday I heard a rumor that there is a third mama lion at the park. Is it true that Etosha and M’bari have a new cub and she’s actually able to mother this little one? Thanks.

By: Lainie

Lainie — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 20:32:45 +0000

Thank you so much for the update. Cant wait to see the little ones !! Also, was wondering, what is the update
on the lion cubs older siblings ?? How are they adapting, and is they any news on them ?

By: Deborah

Deborah — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 23:19:12 +0000

It would be great if the public could participate in the naming of the cubs (or at least one cub) like we do with the pandas.

By: Mae in NJ

Mae in NJ — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 05:02:35 +0000

Thank you, Marcia, for the wonderful blog about the lion cubs. Wish I had seen the” turtle-cub.” I know you are very busy when you work, but I am glad that you make the effort to be our ” eyes.” You communicate your observations about the lionesses and their cubs with so much warmth and humor. How funny that the protective Oshana should have such independent cubs, while liberal Mina’s cubs tend to obey her directions. It should be fun coming up with names for the babies.

By: Michele

Michele — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 02:46:11 +0000

When will the cubs be out on display for people to view? HOw exciting that they are doing so well..

By: Ian

Ian — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 23:44:06 +0000

Wow, sounds like Oshana and Mina have there paws full!!! I can’t wait to watch all these little ones grow up. Thank you so much for the update Marcia, you have an amazing job. I look forward to hearing what you name them.

By: Margaret

Margaret — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:20:45 +0000

Thanks for the update, Marcia. Sounds like it is an exciting time for all. Also guess that both mothers nap while the cubs nap since they are worn out already from bringing them in and out of the den. Won’t be long before those clumsy legs get stronger, and the independent streak in all 7 cubs cubs to the forefront and off they will go. Likely to be in 7 different directions based on past experience. What a discovery time that will be for the youngsters, and busy time for the moms. Izu’s help will definitely be needed and appreciated as 3 sets of eyes are better than 2.