Local lion cub named after a potato
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Kiazi the lion cub is out and about and ready for the limelight. Photo: Courtesy Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium
Kiazi, our new lion cub, is named after arguably Pittsburgh's favorite vegetable: the potato.
The intrigue: Pittsburgh Zoo's newest feline friend was unveiled to the public Monday after four months nursing in private with her mother, the zoo announced.
- Her name was chosen after 1,141 names were submitted by fans.
Zoom in: Kiazi, born April 5, was named for the Swahili word for “potato,” a nod to her father, Hondo, who came to Pittsburgh from the Idaho Falls Zoo.
- African lions are native to the central African savannah, where Swahili is spoken.
Zoom out: Hondo is a 9-year-old male and Kiazi's mother is a 9-year-old lioness named Scarlett. They are both first-time parents.
What they're saying: “Since she is Hondo’s first offspring and he is from Idaho, keepers loved the name,” said assistant curator of mammals Karen Vacco in a statement. “Hondo’s little Idaho potato!”
🥔 Ryan's thought bubble: Yinzers are obsessed with potatoes (french fries on salads, pierogies at every restaurant, etc.) so Kiazi is a perfect name for our little lioness.
The fine print: The zoo raised $5,705 through the name submissions, which will be used for operational support and conservation.
The bottom line: Kiazi's arrival strengthens a nationwide breeding effort focused on maintaining healthy lion populations in human care, per the zoo.