Update on Blackpool Zoo's adorable trio of little lion cubs after health checks by specialist vets

Blackpool Zoo has confirmed its three lion cubs are thriving and making fantastic progress after successfully completing their second round of health checks.

The checks took place a couple of weeks ago, with the cubs examined by zoo keepers and Andrew from Moore Vets as part of their ongoing care and development. The zoo said it was incredible to see how much the youngsters had grown in such a short space of time, adding that all three were developing well.

There is also more exciting news on the way, with Blackpool Zoo inviting followers on social media to look out for an opportunity to help choose names for the cubs. The latest milestone is particularly special for keeper Adam, who has experienced a full-circle moment after helping with the routine health checks of two generations of the same lion family.

In August 2015, Adam helped carry out a health check on Khari when he was around 12 weeks old. Eleven years later, he was involved in the same process again, this time caring for Khari’s own cubs.

The occasion highlights the long-term relationships that can develop between animal keepers and the animals in their care, as well as the dedication and expertise involved in maintaining their welfare throughout their lives.

Routine health checks allow keepers to monitor the cubs as they grow, while the arrival of the next generation also highlights the importance of conservation breeding programmes in supporting vulnerable species.

For Adam, being involved in Khari’s care as a youngster and later helping with the health checks of his offspring represents a particularly memorable moment in his work with the lions.