The National Zoological gardens is taking efforts to strengthen two male lion cubs which have been abandoned by its mother.

According to the Director General of the Zoological gardens Dr Chandana Rajapaksa explained that the two lion cubs which were earlier held at the Ridiyagama Safari Zoo have been taken to the Pinnawala zoo, and subjected to hydro therapy treatment.

The lions had been undergoing treatments for over a six month period. According to the Director General, the lion cub’s mother had refused to provide milk for the cubs, therefore the cub's hind legs had become unstable, making the animals difficult to walk.

The Director said that the animals are given special care and are given hydro therapy treatment as well as imported special milk to supplement their diet and improve their nutrition and are taking every possible measure to strengthen the animals.

The zoo officials have identified that the Lion cubs are suffering from calcium deficiency and a nerve- ailment.

 By Rekaha Tharangani Fonseka