Help Name These Stunning Lion Cubs At The Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo recently announced the birth of two African Lion Cubs. These special babies are part of a plan to help the species survive, which elevates the animals from merely cute to absolutely precious.

The Phoenix Zoo acted as matchmakers for a special lion breeding program. The zoo is part of the Lion Species Survival Plan, an animal conservation program that, according to TurpentineCreek.org, "...focuses on ensuring the survival of endangered or threatened species by breeding them in captivity."

"Moyo" means "heart". What name will you choose for this cub? | Phoenix Zoo via Facebook // Background Image: Canva

The Phoenix Zoo paired up the lion parents: six-year-old Zuri from the Pueblo Zoo and eight-year-old Boboo, a Phoenix Zoo resident. The pair welcomed two bouncing baby African lion cubs on June 3rd. The last time the zoo had African lion cubs was in 1976.

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The cubs have yet to make their public debut. Mama lion, Zuri, has been caring for them under the watchful eyes of the zoo staff.

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Jasiri could be the name of this "brave" cub! | Phoenix Zoo via Facebook // Background Image: Canva

The Phoenix Zoo Wants Your Help: Name the Lion Cubs

The babies are here, and they're growing fast. The zoo has provided everything they need to thrive, except for one thing: names! You can help the zoo choose names for these beautiful babies.

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Help name these cuties! | Phoenix Zoo via Facebook // Background Image: Canva

To be clear, the zoo is not soliciting suggestions, so your dream of naming one of the cubs Lion McLionpants will have to wait another day. Here's the list they've compiled, and you can help them choose by voting on your favorites.

Azizi - 'precious' (Arabic/Swahili)
Baahir - 'dazzling' or 'brilliant' (Arabic)
Babatunde - 'the father returns' (Yoruba)
Hasani - 'handsome' (Swahili)
Jasiri - 'brave' (Swahili)
Moyo - 'heart' (Ndebele)
Sibasa - 'king of the wild' (Zimbabwe)
Tau - 'lion' (Tswana/Sotho)

Precious ad Handsome? Yes, they are. Choose their names! | Phoenix Zoo via Facebook // Background Image: Canva

You have until September 22, 2024, to choose your favorite names for these adorable cuties. You can be part of history by helping to select their monikers. Get your kids and grandkids in on the adventure.

I feel a little like wise old Rafiki naming Simba in The Lion King. Helping launch these beautiful babies into the public eye warms my heart - as the circle of life continues at the Phoenix Zoo!