It has now been a full month since the birth of four African lion cubs at Longleat Safari & Adventure Park, and the tiny pride is thriving under the watchful care of their first-time mother, Malaika. Her name means “angel” in Swahili, and she has certainly lived up to it. Despite this being her initial experience of motherhood, Malaika has shown remarkable instincts—nurturing, attentive, and fiercely protective. Keepers report that she rarely lets the cubs out of her sight, guiding them gently as they begin to explore their surroundings and develop their playful personalities.
The timing of their birth has added an extra layer of excitement. In celebration of the release of The Lion King 3D, two of the cubs have been given names that pay tribute to Disney’s iconic characters: Simba and Nala. Just like their animated counterparts, the pair are already showing a strong bond, often seen tumbling over one another or napping side by side. Their names not only delight Disney fans, but also help highlight the importance of conserving real-life African lions, whose wild populations continue to face pressure.
The remaining two cubs have been given meaningful Swahili names that reflect the spirit and heritage of their species. Enzi, meaning “Powerful,” is quickly living up to his name with a confident, adventurous streak. Nyota, meaning “Star,” stands out for her bright, curious eyes and gentle temperament. Together, the four cubs bring a renewed sense of wonder to Longleat, captivating visitors and staff alike.
As they continue to grow, the cubs represent not only the success of Longleat’s breeding efforts but also a celebration of the enduring magic of lions—both on screen and in the wild. Their first month marks the beginning of an exciting journey, one that many will follow with joy and admiration.
