The birth of three healthy lion cubs has given our oldest zoological garden a fitting reason to celebrate as the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens marks its 90th anniversary this month.
The Department of National Zoological Gardens announced that the cubs were born to the zoo's African lion pair and are healthy and thriving under the watchful care of animal keepers and veterinary staff. Their arrival has become one of the highlights of the zoo's 90th anniversary celebrations, symbolising both the institution's long history and its continuing role in wildlife conservation and education.
Established on 3 July 1936, the Dehiwala Zoo has grown from a modest collection of animals into Sri Lanka's premier zoological institution. Over nine decades, it has evolved from being primarily a recreational attraction into a centre dedicated to conservation, scientific research, education and the welfare of wildlife.
Today, the Department of National Zoological Gardens manages not only the Dehiwala Zoo but also several other institutions, including the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Pinnawala Zoo and Ridiyagama Safari Park, broadening its role in wildlife management and conservation across the country.
According to the department, the zoo currently houses around 2,300 animals representing mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish from Sri Lanka and around the world. These collections provide visitors with opportunities to observe species that many would otherwise never encounter while also supporting breeding programmes for threatened animals.
Officials say the institution's mission has expanded significantly over the decades. Beyond exhibiting animals, the zoo now focuses on wildlife conservation, scientific research, public awareness, environmental education and maintaining high standards of animal care. Breeding programmes have become an increasingly important aspect of its work, helping to sustain populations of several species under human care.
The arrival of the three lion cubs is particularly significant because successful breeding depends on careful husbandry, appropriate nutrition, veterinary expertise and a suitable environment. Zoo officials said both the mother and cubs are being closely monitored to ensure their continued health and development. Visitors are expected to be able to see the cubs as they become more active in the coming weeks.
The Department noted that the zoo has changed considerably since it first opened its gates in 1936. Facilities have been upgraded over the years, while new approaches to animal welfare have been introduced in keeping with modern zoological practices. The institution has also increased its emphasis on educating visitors about biodiversity, conservation challenges and the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
As part of its conservation efforts, the department works to raise awareness of the threats facing wildlife, including habitat destruction, climate change and illegal wildlife trade. Educational programmes conducted for schoolchildren and families encourage greater appreciation of biodiversity and responsible stewardship of the natural environment.
The department says the zoo also plays an important role in scientific studies and conservation breeding, contributing to the long-term survival of several species while helping to build public support for wildlife protection.
To mark the milestone anniversary, the Department of National Zoological Gardens has planned commemorative activities celebrating the institution's history and achievements over the past 90 years. Officials said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the zoo's evolution while reaffirming its commitment to conservation, education and scientific advancement.
Although public attitudes towards zoos have changed considerably over the decades, modern zoological institutions increasingly measure their success not simply by visitor numbers but by their contributions to conservation, research and education. The Department says these principles will continue to guide the future development of the Dehiwala Zoo.
As the institution enters its tenth decade, the playful trio of lion cubs has become an emblem of renewal and hope. Their birth coincides with a historic milestone for a zoo that has introduced generations of Sri Lankans to the wonders of the animal kingdom while steadily transforming itself into a modern conservation institution.
Ninety years after first opening its gates, the Dehiwala Zoo continues to evolve, balancing its role as one of the country's most popular family attractions with its growing responsibility to protect wildlife, promote environmental awareness and contribute to global conservation efforts. The three young lion cubs are a timely reminder that, even after nine decades, the zoo continues to write new chapters in its long and colourful history.