Werribee Open Range Zoo’s precious trio of 10-week-old lion cubs now have names.
The monikers were chosen via an online naming competition where more than 360,000 Zoos Victoria members and
donors had the opportunity to cast their vote.
The highest polling names are Mwezi [pronounced: Mw-e-zee], Kianga [pronounced: Kee-ang-uh] and Jango [pronounced: Jan-go].
Werribee Open Range Zoo African River Trail keeper Ben Gulli said the names are from languages used in the African regions where wild lions are found and the names align with the Werribee Zoo lion cubs’ individual personalities.
“The name Mwezi – meaning moon in Swahili – has been given to one of the male cubs because the litter was born
during the evening of a full moon,” Mr Gulli said.
“The name Kianga – meaning sunshine in Swahili – has been given to the female cub because she’s very bright and
picks things up really quickly.
“The name Jango – meaning brave in Xhosa – has been given to the second male cub because he’s extremely confident in exploring on his own.”
Mr Gulli said the cubs are continuing to grow in both size and confidence.
“The cubs are continuing to take opportunities to explore beyond the comforts of their den, venturing into their pride’s habitat,” Mr Gulli said. “This is now extending up to one hour a day. Like many other newborns, they tire very quickly but the amount of time they explore and play will increase as they build their strength and resilience in the coming weeks and months.“
“This phased approach is part of a specially designed plan that aims to replicate how lion cubs integrate with their environment and pride members in the wild.”
