Said Azizi, head of the Zoology and Veterinary Department at Rabat Zoo, announced on Sunday that the new Atlas lion cub, « Azghar, » has successfully integrated with his group.
Dr. Azizi explained in a statement to the Maghreb Arab Press (MAP) that « this cub, born in August 2024, is under the supervision of the zoo’s technical teams, as part of the veterinary monitoring and special care measures provided to this species, which has been extinct in the wild since the early 20th century. »
He noted that « this birth is the result of a conservation program for this endemic and symbolic species of Morocco’s wildlife, » adding that the uniqueness of this birth lies in it being the first within a newly formed group.
The veterinarian further stated, « We are committed to continually forming new groups to limit inbreeding and enhance the genetic diversity of this subspecies, » adding that the cub has undergone specific measures since his birth in August, including a veterinary check-up, sex determination, and maternal care evaluation.
He also mentioned that during its first month, the cub was under the care of the keepers, and from the second month, it underwent procedures such as electronic identification, vaccinations, and anti-parasitic treatments.
Finally, Azghar and his mother Massa were gradually reintroduced to the group, initially with the females, before being introduced to the dominant male.
Regarding the cub’s name, Dr. Azizi revealed that « the digital community following the zoo chose the name Azghar, an Amazigh word meaning ‘plains.' »
Morocco, known for its unique biodiversity and rich flora and fauna, is currently the only country that preserves the Atlas lions, hosting the largest population of this species in the world, with numbers ranging between 30 and 40 individuals depending on the year.
Through its conservation program, the Rabat National Zoo aims to maintain a core group of this species, by promoting regular, monitored breeding and balanced animal care management, to ensure the genetic diversity necessary for the long-term survival of the species.
Awareness workshops on the need to protect endangered species and fragile ecosystems are planned for the upcoming school holidays, aimed at reminding the history of the Atlas lions and the importance of this heritage for present and future generations.
