Washington:
Before these four lion cubs were allowed to roam free in their den at the Washington zoo, they had to pass a swimming test.
The keepers wanted to ensure they are be able to swim because, when they move to the outdoor enclosure in December, they'll find themselves surrounded by a moat that is 10 feet deep.
Wearing wet suits, the lion keepers guided each 18-pound, eight-week-old cub into the moat surrounding their den.
According to the zoo, all four cubs - three females and one male - passed the test with flying colours, managing to perform a passable Lion paddle.
The cubs swam under the expert guidance of the zoo's curator, Craig Saffoe, and two keepers - Rebecca Stites and Kristen Clark.
The lions will be released into the den after their rabies shots. The litter is the first for 4-year-old Shera, who is an excellent mother, according to the zoo.
The cubs are expected to stay at the National Zoo for the next 2 years , before moving to other zoos to participate in conservation breeding programs.
The keepers wanted to ensure they are be able to swim because, when they move to the outdoor enclosure in December, they'll find themselves surrounded by a moat that is 10 feet deep.
Wearing wet suits, the lion keepers guided each 18-pound, eight-week-old cub into the moat surrounding their den.
According to the zoo, all four cubs - three females and one male - passed the test with flying colours, managing to perform a passable Lion paddle.
The cubs swam under the expert guidance of the zoo's curator, Craig Saffoe, and two keepers - Rebecca Stites and Kristen Clark.
The lions will be released into the den after their rabies shots. The litter is the first for 4-year-old Shera, who is an excellent mother, according to the zoo.
The cubs are expected to stay at the National Zoo for the next 2 years , before moving to other zoos to participate in conservation breeding programs.
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