TWO new African lions were introduced to the public at Perth Zoo this morning.
Sisters Uzuri and Makeba were born at Taronga Western Plains Zoo and will become new breeding females for the Zoo’s lion program.
The three-year-olds are closely bonded and will live close to the Zoo’s 19-year-old lioness Shinyanga.
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Uzuri and Makeba will now settle into the $3.4 million world-class facility which has been optimised for breeding with special dens, holding areas and the capacity to hold four adult lions and four cubs.
“Breeding for conservation is a game of patience,” Environment Minister Stephen Dawson said.
“Zoo staff will work with their global zoo colleagues to transfer breeding males to Perth Zoo in the future to establish a new pride with the best genes from two hemispheres.
“Our Zoo visitors will be able to learn about the challenges lions face in the wild and how to be a part of protecting these amazing animals.”