Pittsburgh Zoo Names Lion Cub Kiazi on World Lion Day

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium has named its lion cub Kiazi, coinciding with World Lion Day celebrations on August 10. This announcement comes four months after the cub's birth and follows the submission of over 1,000 name suggestions from the public.

Kiazi, which means 'potato' in Swahili, was chosen to reflect the cub's family history and African heritage. The name honors her father, Hondo, who is originally from Idaho Falls Zoo. The zoo raised $5,705 through the naming initiative, which will support the care of lions and other animals at the facility.

Born on April 5 to first-time parents Hondo and Scarlett, Kiazi is now visible in her habitat after spending time behind the scenes. This birth marks the first lion cub at the zoo since July 2020. African lions are classified as vulnerable, with their population declining significantly due to various threats. The zoo participates in a conservation program aimed at maintaining a healthy lion population.