The Pittsburgh Zoo was roaring with excitement Monday as its new African lion cub, Kiazi, made her debut on World Lion Day.
She was born on April 5, weighs 26 pounds and her name means “potato” in Swahili.
Kiazi wasn’t the only one to make an appearance, with new parents Scarlett and Hondo, as well as Aunt Ibana coming out to show off the little one.
Hondo (left) laying down on a rock while Kiazi plays with Scarlett.
Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium President and CEO Jeremy Goldman says Kiazi’s mom, Scarlett, has been with the zoo for almost seven years, while father Hondo came over from Idaho around a year ago.
“Trying to move a lion is a big deal… but it all pays off on a day like today when you get the end result, a beautiful, healthy cub,” said Goldman.
Being a new mother, Goldman mentioned there is a possibility Scarlett could reject her cub. However, Goldman and his team already have a plan in place to ensure Kiazi develops well in her new home.
“We would do everything possible to keep that animal in, around and near the pride with the hopes that mom would turn around and eventually accept the cub,” said Goldman.
Zoo patrons were invited to submit names for Kiazi in June as part of a fundraiser for the animals. Zoo officials say they’re monitoring Kiazi’s diet, weight gain and overall well-being. So far, though, she’s been energetic and very attached to her mom.