Inspiring Recovery: The Heartwarming Journey of Orphaned Mountain Lion Cubs

In a touching tale of resilience and recovery, three orphaned mountain lion cubs—Fern, Thistle, and Spruce—have found their forever homes after facing a difficult start in life. Rescued a year ago in Portola Valley, these cubs were orphaned when their mother likely fell victim to a car accident. Thanks to local wildlife rescuers and the dedicated staff at the Oakland Zoo, these cubs have flourished and are now thriving in their respective habitats.

Promising Progress for Spruce at Birmingham Zoo

Spruce, one of the cubs, is living a remarkable life at the Birmingham Zoo, where he has formed a bond with another rescued cub named Juniper. Initially weighing only 33 pounds upon arrival, Spruce has nearly tripled his weight, highlighting his healthy growth of 85 pounds as of December 31, 2025. This transformation is a testament to the care he has received and the abundant nourishment provided at the zoo, with Spruce now enjoying a robust diet of nearly four pounds of meat each day.

Fern and Thistle: Flourishing in Their New Environments

Both Fern and Thistle have also adapted remarkably well to their new surroundings. Thistle stands out for her bold and lively demeanor, often greeting visitors with her charismatic presence. Fern, although more reserved, has discovered her playful side, particularly during evening hours when she runs and plays freely. The siblings have displayed impressive climbing abilities, frequently spotted resting on tree perches, which reflects their instinctual behaviors and the enriching environments they now inhabit.

This uplifting story not only sheds light on the resilience of wildlife but also emphasizes the significant efforts made by zoos and animal caretakers in rehabilitating and nurturing orphaned animals. The journey of these mountain lion cubs serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the positive outcomes that stem from human intervention in times of need.