Video: Lion Cubs Take a Swim Test at the Smithsonian Zoo
At the Smithsonian's National Zoo, four lion cubs all had to take a swimming test to make sure it was safe to put them into the habitat with their mother. Lions are born knowing how to swim, but it's best to make sure they all can handle it in case they fall in. The habitat is surrounded by a moat and the vets didn't want any accidents.
They all passed the test, and three of them were mighty unhappy about it. But the fourth cub seemed to like the water. She immediately struck out for the center of the pool and didn't make a big effort to get back onto dry land. They are just adorable. A zookeeper was in the pool wearing waders to make sure no cub was in danger. The cubs will join their mother in the habitat later this year. Take a look:
