Detroit’s favorite toddlers have manes to grow into. The Detroit Zoo’s three African lion cubs — Mosi, Aziza and Fahari — turn one year old on November 24, and the zoo reports the trio is getting bigger, bolder and more confident by the day.
Born to first-time parents Amirah and Kalu, the cubs made their public debut last spring after a public naming vote run with the Detroit Lions. Their Swahili names are a perfect fit: Mosi means “she is first,” Aziza means “powerful” and Fahari means “proud.” Keepers say Mosi is the independent one — always ready to join the fun, with a distinctive pointy head shape reminiscent of her mom — while Aziza, the darkest of the three, loves teaming up with her brother for sibling playtime.
Fahari, the only male, is showing off a very grown-up feature: the beginnings of a mane along the sides of his face and across his chest. Give the cubs a green hexagon ball, keepers say, and stand back — chasing their enrichment toys turns playtime into practice for coordination and strength.
Families can visit the pride at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak this fall and wish the cubs a happy first birthday season in person. Lions are weather fans, so warm, dry days offer the best chance to catch the youngsters outside.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
