Behind the scenes with the National Zoo's lion cubs

The majority of us in the Washington, D.C., metro area can remember our first trip to the National Zoo in Northwest. The wildlife at the zoo has entertained and educated us for generations, but what we rarely see is the hard work and dedication by the staff to bring us these wonderful memories. Most know the importance of having a morning routine, but at the National Zoo not many know what goes into the lion keepers' routine. With seven new additions to the lion pride, keepers Kristen Clark and Rebecca Stites have their hands full in caring for the young pride. Basic chores such as cleaning, feeding and training set the ground work for these young cubs to grow up and become ambassadors for their species. TBD Segment Producer Hillary Esquina brings us this look behind the scenes at the National Zoo.

For more information on lion cubs and on the National Zoo, you can go to www.nationalzoo.si.edu/.

Produced, shot and edited by Hillary Esquina