First time in the world: South African lion cubs conceived artificially
If you take a look at the two lion cubs at the conservation centre outside of South Africa’s capital Pretoria, it is quite hard to imagine that anything is out of the ordinary. But these two cute little lion cubs are really unique. They are the first ever South African lion cubs to be conceived artificially.
“These are the first ever lion cubs to be born means of artificial insemination — the first pair anywhere in the world,” announced the University of Pretoria. Their scientists are researching the reproductive system of female African lions.
The two cubs, one male and the other female, were born on 25th August. They were completely normal and healthy. This was confirmed Andre Ganswindt, the director of the University of Pretoria’s mammal research institute.
This breakthrough came from his team after 18 months of intensive research and trials. The South African lion cubs are a real miracle.
Sperm was collected from a healthy lion. Then when the lioness’ hormone levels were found to be viable, she was inseminated immediately. Although there were several attempts, the whole thing did not take much effort. He said that the breakthrough could be repeated. Scientists are hoping that this technique will help to increase the species density of other endangered big cats as well.
Currently, lions are extinct in 26 African countries. Their number in the wild have plummeted 43 per cent over the last two decades, with roughly only 20,000 left. This is according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It also lists the African lion as a vulnerable species.
This research, if standardised and brought into regular practice would be a blessing for the endangered species of the world. The South African lion cubs are the first ones. More will be in line and soon the wilds shall rejoice their biodiversity once more.
