Racine, WI – The Racine Zoo, in partnership with Johnson Bank and The Journal Times announced the names of the two Transvaal lion cubs today.  With an African theme that pays homage to the lions’ heritage, the male cub is Badu and the female is Zuka. The names were chosen for the cubs by the Zoo’s carnivore specialists from 683 entries from the public.

“We were thrilled with the number of entries and the thought so many people put into their submissions. We had fun reviewing all of the options, and the decision was a tough one.  They were looking for names that would live-on with the cubs as they will someday move to other zoos,” said Jay Christie, President and CEO, Racine Zoo.

The names were announced at 2:30 pm as part of the “Baby Shower” in honor of the cubs presented by Johnson Bank. Christie and Johnson Bank President, Tom Mahoney made the official announcement. Today is the first day the cubs are available for viewing by the general public.

Connor Becker, 9, of Racine submitted the name Zuka, while Ellen Billman, 29, of Racine, submitted Badu.  They received a gift basket that included a prize package including, a cubs ADOPT package, a pride of Racine t-shirt and a gift card.  Becker was on hand to receive his gift while Billman sent a friend in her place.

Johnson Bank has a rich history of supporting the Racine Zoo and its lions.  Sponsoring Elsa and Aslan’s arrival to the Zoo in November 2005 with the intent they would one day mate, Johnson Bank sponsored the first “Pride of Racine” in 2007, when the pair had their first litter.

The Racine Zoo works with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) program to help ensure the survival of selected wildlife species. Each SSP manages the breeding of a species in order to maintain a healthy and sustaining population that is both genetically diverse and demographically stable. 

The Racine Zoo is open daily.  Current hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission fees are: Members and children under 3: FREE, children 3 – 15: $4.00, seniors $5.00 and adults $6.00. For more information on the Racine Zoo, it’s programs and events, explore www.racinezoo.org.

The mission of the Racine Zoological Society is to foster an enlightening and affordable wildlife experience that improves the bond between people and nature. The Society will provide for the recreation and education of the people, the conservation of wildlife and wild places, and the advancement of science.