Parental love isn\u2019t unique to humans\u2014many wild animals show deep affection for their young too.<\/p>\n
Scientists have observed emotions in animals like chimpanzees and gorillas, but what about lions?<\/p>\n
In September, cameras at the Denver Zoo captured a touching moment between lion dad Tobias and his newborn cub, Tatu.<\/p>\n
Born on July 25, 2019, Tatu quickly became a favorite at the zoo with his playful and curious nature, charming visitors and social media alike.<\/p>\n
Tatu is mom Neliah\u2019s third cub and already weighs 12 pounds. His birth is a major win for lion conservation. With half of Africa\u2019s lions gone in the past 25 years, his arrival supports the Lion Species Survival Plan, which aims to preserve genetically healthy lion populations in accredited zoos.<\/p>\n
For first-time dad Tobias, the meeting was special\u2014his genetics are valuable, and this was his first cub. Their heartwarming first interaction has since gone viral, melting hearts around the world.<\/p>\n