Heartwarming
footage of the moment a papa lion meets its baby cubs for the first time
The
heart-warming first encounter shows six-month-old cubs Kamali, Zalika and
Angalia as they attempt to play with their father, Zawadi Mungu 'At first
he was surprised but as time passed he grew more patient,' said senior zoo
keeper Laura Weiner.
Lions may
be one of the world's deadliest predators - but this male quickly assumed the
role of caring father when meeting his cubs for the first time.
The
heart-warming first encounter shows six-month-old cubs Kamali, Zalika and
Angalia full of youthful intrigue as they bound towards their dad hoping he
wanted to play.
Despite
appearing withdrawn at first, 500lb Zawadi Mungu quickly got used to his young
triplets bouncing around him with their mother Neka nearby in their Predators
of the Serengeti habitat in Oregon Zoo, USA.
And aware
of his new role he was quick to ensure they knew who was boss - giving them a
gentle roar if they overstepped the mark or a light pat with his paw to calm
them down.
Senior
keeper for the zoo's Africa section Laura
Weiner said: 'We were confident that Zawadi would be tolerant of his cubs right
away and we're glad we were right because the cubs rushed him as Soon as they
saw him.
'At first
he was surprised but as time passed he grew more patient.'
'Within
minutes he had female lions swarming him. I think all the attention must have
been overwhelming because he quickly jumped onto a boulder to escape for a
bit.'
When
the papa lion first encounters one of his cubs, he roars to show her who's boss
Hey
Dad do you think I could fit my whole head in your mouth?
One
day, little cub, you will be able to roar like me
It's
OK dad. I heard you roar the first time
I'm
so glad we are finally able to meet face to face
My
father always said that family that preys together stays together
Do
you feel as though we are being watched?
Don't
mind me Dad; I'm just snuggling in your mane
