Audubon Zoo Reveals Genders of Lion Cubs

Happy news from Audubon Zoo! The genders of the three new African lion cubs have been determined – two girl cubs and one boy cub. The adorable trio was born October 19, 2025, and is currently behind-the-scenes with their mom Kali.

Kali and her sisters Zuri and Nia helped answer the question everyone has been asking since the cubs were born. The lionesses helped their zookeepers make the big announcement at the Zoo. The care team made special ice treats for the lions to enjoy, and whipped cream topping hid the genders of the three little ones. It didn’t take long for the big reveals!

Mom Kali is spending more time with her sisters and was focused on her ice treats as the genders were shared. She will keep the cubs behind-the-scenes until they are a bit older and fully vaccinated.

This is the first time Audubon Zoo has raised three African lion cubs. Animal care team members say the cubs are healthy, thriving, and growing. Under the watchful eye of mom Kali, the cubs spend their days nursing, napping, and trying to take their first wobbly steps.  

African lions like these are listed as vulnerable species in the wild due to increased threats from loss of prey, habitat destruction, and poaching. Audubon Zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction program, which partners with organizations in Africa to protect lions and support sustainable conservation efforts.