One of the most vulnerable times for an adult female lion in the wild is when she gives birth. Lionesses give birth alone, in areas where they feel safe.
At the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, they give their female lions access a safe and quiet birthing area that includes a den and an enclosure.
Scroll down to watch video
As stewards of a living collection, they are always conscious of the cycle of life. their internal cam allows our curators and biologists to watch and learn more about the birth process for an African lioness.
It’s a valuable learning experience for their scientists that they also want to share with you!
Watch the video below