KARACHI: Karachi Zoological Gardens has welcomed the birth of a pair of lion cubs, marking the first such occurrence at the zoo in over 12 years.
Previously, the zoo recorded a lion birth in 2011 when a pair of lions produced four cubs. Tragically, three of those cubs were found dead in their enclosure, and the fourth went missing within a week.
According to a zoo official, the newborn cubs are healthy and being cared for by their mother. To ensure the cubs’ safety, the male lion was separated from the family shortly after the birth, which occurred three days ago. The zoo administration has restricted visitor access to the lions’ enclosure to avoid disturbing the mother and cubs.
The official explained that lion cubs are particularly vulnerable in their initial weeks of life as they are born blind and rely entirely on their mother for care. Protecting them from external disturbances is crucial for their development and the strengthening of their bond with the mother.
The cubs were born to a pair of lions that were gifted to the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) in March by a private zoo associated with a housing scheme. The other pair of lions from this gift was transferred to Safari Park. One of the pumas from the same gift did not survive the transfer to the zoo.
Currently, only one pair of lions remains at Karachi Zoo. Other big cats at the facility, including a remaining puma, a Bengal tiger, a white lioness, and a male lion rescued from Sharea Faisal last year, are housed individually.
The zoo director was unavailable for comment, but sources indicate that Karachi Zoo has faced issues with trained staff and a history of animal neglect. Just over a month ago, a lioness at the zoo passed away, although details about her death have not been provided.
A retired KMC official highlighted that the zoo often isolates animals that lose their mates or those brought in from rescues, leading to lives of solitary confinement. This situation underscores the urgent need for improvements in animal welfare at the zoo.
