Six lion cubs named at Ridiyagama Safari Park

Colombo, Feb 12 (Daily Mirror) - Six lion cubs, which include five females and one male, were born approximately three months ago at the Ridiyagama Safari Park, Department of National Zoological Gardens Director General Chandana Rajapaksa said.

He said the children were given the oppourtunity to submit their name till February 2. A total of 4,000 names were suggested.

However, the names submitted by the children were selected and announced today during the exhibition. 

Accordingly, the male lion cub was named as Megha and the rest of the female lion cubs were named as Tara, Agra, Bhumi, Akira and Elsa.

The Wildlife Department awarded prizes for three winners who were present at the ceremony.

The five female and one male lion cubs were born to a lioness named Lara and her mother Youla at the Ridiyagama Safari Park in Hambantota about three months ago.

Veterinary officers at the park confirmed that the cubs are now eating solid food, such as meat, in addition to their mother’s milk. They are reportedly in excellent health.

However, the visitors were not allowed to touch the cubs.