2 lions added to Calgary Zoo’s pride

Two lions from the Philadelphia Zoo have arrived in Calgary, the zoo announced Tuesday.

African lionesses Mali and Sabi are in quarantine currently. When their health evaluations are done, they will make their debut in late July, according to the zoo.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“Progressive zoos play a fundamental role in species survival,” the zoo said in a Facebook post.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Progressive zoos play a fundamental role in species survival," the zoo said in a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecalgaryzoo/photos/a.10150164186815193/10162159533730193/?type=3&theater" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook post.</a>

The world African Lion population has decreased by 50 per cent in the last 20 years due to loss of habitat, the Calgary Zoo said.

Lions are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN red list of threatened species.