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The names of Woodland Park Zoo’s two South African female lion cubs have been chosen. Photo: courtesy Woodland Park Zoo
On Thursday, March 19, Woodland Park Zoo revealed the names of its two South African female lion cubs. The cubs, born Jan. 14 to dad Tandie and mom Ilanga, are the first cubs to be born at the zoo in more than a decade. They are the third generation of lions to call Woodland Park Zoo home, a significant milestone.
The cubs’ naming adds to the slate of recent exciting zoo announcements including the 2026 Zoo Tunes lineup and a new Wild Encounters exhibit, scheduled to start its phased opening soon.
How the names were chosen
The sister pair are now known as Kamari (which means “moon” in Swahili) and Zawadi (meaning “gift” in Swahili).
The names were selected through a public poll that drew more than 460 donors and included names selected by the lion care team. Kamari’s name received the most votes. Zawadi’s name was selected by a “parent and grandparent of little zoo lovers.” Her name symbolizes the “joy and positivity that children bring to their families and communities.” Funds raised through the naming process will help cover the cost of care for the sister cubs and other animals at the zoo.
“These adorable lion cubs are already having a major impact and helping people feel connected to these majestic felines of the savanna and to each other,” said Martin Ramirez, curator of mammalogy at Woodland Park Zoo. “Their names represent both personal generosity and the incredible community support for our zoo. This new generation of lions is part of a larger story of stewardship, care and community. We are grateful to our community for choosing to be a part of our lion family.”
Pronunciation key for kids
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Can families see the cubs?
Currently, Kamari and Zawadi are in the off-view maternity den with their mom, where they can be closely monitored by the care and veterinary teams. Dad Tandie will be reunited with the family when the cubs are a little older. When they are stronger, families can find the pair in the outdoor habitat, part of the zoo’s African Savannah. Until then, families can watch their sweet antics @woodlandparkzoo.
Where to see more baby animals
Seeing baby animals is a favorite pastime for local families, especially in spring. For those visiting Woodland Park Zoo, the zoo’s Animal Babies page has updates about recent zoo births. Adorable otter pups made their public debut last month at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma.
