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2 Healthy Lion Cubs Born At National Zoo In D.C.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Two African lion cubs have been born at the National Zoo for the first time in four years.

The zoo announced Monday that 10-year-old lion Nababiep gave birth Friday to three cubs, but one was stillborn. The zoo says the two surviving cubs appear active and healthy. Animal keepers say the cubs appear to be nursing, moving and vocalizing to their mother.

The zoo says it's not unusual for lions to have some healthy and one or more stillborn cubs in the same litter.

This is the third litter for Nababiep and the fourth for the father, 8-year-old Luke.

In the wild, hunting, disease and the loss of habitat have contributed to a decline in the African lion population. They are considered a vulnerable species.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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