Turtle Back Zoo has made history with the birth of its first lion cubs in over 60 years—and now you can help name them. Vote for your favorite names and tune in to see the winners announced live.
In a historic moment for Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County, New Jersey, the zoo has welcomed its first lion cubs in over six decades. The cubs, a boy and a girl, were born in late November 2025 to Makena, a three-year-old lioness, and Demarcus, the zoo’s resident male lion. This milestone marks the culmination of a year-long conservation effort to introduce lion cubs to the zoo’s legacy, which spans more than 60 years.
The cubs, now six weeks old, are thriving under the care of their parents and the zoo’s dedicated team. Their birth is not just a celebration for the zoo but also a significant event for wildlife conservation, as lions remain a vulnerable species in the wild. The zoo’s successful breeding program highlights the importance of zoological institutions in preserving endangered species.
The Pride Behind the Cubs: Meet Makena and Demarcus
Makena and Demarcus, the cubs’ parents, have been part of Turtle Back Zoo’s lion conservation program for several years. Their pairing was carefully planned to ensure genetic diversity and the health of future offspring. The zoo’s team has been monitoring the pair closely, and their successful parenting is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
Lions in captivity play a crucial role in educating the public about wildlife conservation. By observing Makena and Demarcus, visitors gain a deeper understanding of lion behavior, social structures, and the challenges these majestic animals face in the wild. The birth of the cubs provides a unique opportunity to engage the community in conservation efforts.
How You Can Help Name the Cubs
The zoo has launched a public naming contest, inviting animal lovers from around the world to vote for their favorite names. This interactive initiative not only fosters a sense of community but also raises awareness about lion conservation. The winning names will be announced live during the 9 a.m. hour on Friday, January 9, 2026.
To participate, visit the zoo’s official platforms and cast your vote. The contest is a fun way to get involved and celebrate this historic moment. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the zoo or a first-time visitor, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark on Turtle Back Zoo’s legacy.
Why This Birth Matters for Conservation
The birth of these cubs is more than just a local celebration—it’s a victory for global wildlife conservation. Lions are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their populations declining due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Zoos like Turtle Back Zoo play a vital role in breeding programs that help maintain genetic diversity and ensure the survival of the species.
By welcoming these cubs, Turtle Back Zoo is contributing to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative effort among accredited zoos to manage and conserve endangered species. The SSP ensures that zoo populations remain healthy and genetically diverse, which is essential for the long-term survival of lions in captivity and the wild.
What’s Next for the Cubs?
In the coming months, the cubs will continue to grow under the watchful eyes of their parents and the zoo’s care team. Visitors can expect to see them exploring their habitat, learning to hunt (under supervision), and interacting with their pride. The zoo plans to host special events and educational programs centered around the cubs, offering visitors a chance to learn more about lion behavior and conservation.
As the cubs mature, they will also become ambassadors for their species, helping to educate the public about the importance of protecting lions and their habitats. Their story is a reminder of the impact that zoos can have on wildlife conservation and the role that each of us can play in preserving our planet’s biodiversity.
For the latest updates on the cubs and their journey, follow Turtle Back Zoo on social media. The zoo regularly shares behind-the-scenes content, including photos and videos of the cubs as they grow and explore their surroundings. It’s a heartwarming way to stay connected to these incredible animals and the zoo’s conservation mission.
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