MIAMI — After a brief absence following the deaths of longtime lions Jabari and Kwame, Zoo Miami has welcomed two young male lions.

Azizi and Jasiri, brothers born June 3, 2024, arrived from the Phoenix Zoo on Nov. 6 and have completed quarantine, zoo officials confirmed Tuesday.

The lions, just over a year old, are beginning to grow the manes that will eventually mark them as adults.

Zoo Miami Communications Director Ron Magill said the brothers were introduced to their new exhibit last Thursday, cautiously exploring the space together and investigating enrichment items provided by staff.

The zoo plans a “soft opening” period over the coming weeks to allow the lions to acclimate before spending more time in public view.

The brothers are part of a long-term plan to establish a pride, with female lions expected in the future as part of the AZA Species Survival Plan.

Zoo Miami also supports lion conservation in the wild, donating funds to protect the species across Africa.

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