14 DAY TRIAL // 6-year-old Neka, a female African lion living in captivity at the Oregon Zoo, is the proud mother of three cubs that were born at this animal sanctuary a little over two weeks ago, on September 7.
Keepers got the chance to examine the litter this past Thursday, September 19, and say they are all girls.
Zoo Borns tells us that Neka was present at the checkup and that, luckily for the vets and the keepers who accompanied them, she did not mind seeing people handling and inspecting her offspring.
More so given the fact that she was offered a bone in exchange for her cooperation.
“Neka did great and didn't seem upset at all that we were in there with her babies — it really shows the great relationship and trust she has with her care team,” zoo employee Jennifer Davis told the press.
Two of the three baby lionesses are being nursed regularly by their mother. Besides, they are quite active and make squeaky sounds as often as they get the chance.
Unfortunately, the third was somewhat weak, dehydrated and had a low body temperature at the time of the checkup. Vets gave her supplemental food and fluids, and hope it will not be long until she starts feeling better.
“We're still very concerned about her. We're just trying to give her every chance possible, and we're all hopeful that she just needs a little boost and can soon get back to nursing alongside her sisters,” Jennifer Davis said.