Lion Cubs Get First Check-Up: Big Pics
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Sept. 17, 2010 -- Four lion cubs born Aug. 30 at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., underwent their first physical exam today and were given a clean bill of health.
The Smithsonian Zoo reports that all four cubs are believed to be female, but that it can be difficult to determine gender in cubs so young.
Zoo veterinarians will be keeping a watchful eye on the new arrivals. Lion cub mortality rate is generally high. About 30 percent of cubs in captivity die in their first year compared with 67 percent in the wild, according to the Smithsonian. The cubs will undergo regular physicals and will receive vaccinations in another month.
These super-cute check-ups may become routine, since the zoo's other mature female lion is also pregnant.
Photo credit: Smithsonian National Zoo
By: Amy Enchelmeyer
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