Former Idaho Falls Zoo lion becomes first-time father at Pittsburgh Zoo

PITTSBURGH (KIFI) — A lion that once called the Idaho Falls Zoo home is now a first-time father.

The Pittsburgh Zoo recently shared video of a female African lion cub born to Scarlett and Hondo, a lion that previously lived at the Idaho Falls Zoo before being transferred to Pennsylvania as part of a breeding recommendation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan.

The cub was born April 5 and is expected to make her public debut later this summer, according to zoo officials.

Animal care staff say the cub is healthy and continuing to meet developmental milestones.

"The cub is doing great and exceeding milestones," Assistant Curator of Mammals Karen Vacco said. "Scarlett is an excellent mother and has been caring for the cub well."

Scarlett and her cub are currently living in a maternity den away from public view, allowing the pair to bond in a quiet environment. Zoo officials say the arrangement mirrors natural lion behavior, as lionesses typically seek secluded areas to protect their young until they are strong enough to join the pride.

The cub is the first for both Scarlett and Hondo. Hondo arrived at the Pittsburgh Zoo less than a year ago as part of breeding efforts.

Zoo veterinarians are conducting routine health checks while staff monitor the cub's growth and nursing patterns.

Officials say the cub will remain behind the scenes until she is older and able to move confidently around the habitat. Adult lions will continue to be visible to zoo visitors.

The birth is also considered a success for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Lion Species Survival Plan, which works to maintain genetic diversity among animals in human care.

African lions are classified as vulnerable in the wild and face threats including habitat loss, human conflict and declining prey populations.

The zoo plans to share updates on the cub's development throughout the summer on its social media channels.