London Zoo: Lion cubs take their first steps outside

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Image caption,

The siblings played with each other in their new setting

Meet the new residents of London Zoo - three adorable lion cubs.

The cubs were seen this weekend taking their first steps outside in their enclosure.

The cubs were seen playing with each other, exploring their territory, and hanging out with their mother, Arya.

The cubs are specifically Asiatic lion cubs - which are currently considered endangered.

Baby steps

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Image caption,

The cubs were seen with their mother, Arya, keeping close watch

Before they stepped outside, the cubs had been spending their time indoors in a special cub den with their mother.

The cubs haven't been named yet, and they will have their first health check later this month.

They seemed pretty happy to have the chance to explore!

Image source, ZSL / PA Wire

Their enclosure in London Zoo is designed like an Indian forest - which is their species' natural habitat.

The babies were born as a part of a breeding programme in the zoo to protect the species.

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London Zoo are hoping to protect to Asiatic lion species

Fact file: Asiatic lions

Native habitat: Gir National Park, India

Size: Males can weigh up to 190kg, and females up to 120kg

Favourite food: Large and small mammals, like deer and boar

Status: Endangered

Image source, ZSL / PA Wire
Image caption,

The cubs haven't got any names yet - do you have any ideas? Put them in the comments!