Lincoln Park Zoo welcomes 2 lionesses

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Lincoln Park Zoo has welcomed two new lionesses, Zalika and Kamali, to join resident male lion, Sahar, at Kovler Lion House.

The two African lionesses are sisters that come to Chicago by way of Oregon Zoo. They are both a year and a half old and weigh about 160 lbs.

"We're very excited to introduce Zalika and Kamali to Chicago and to our male lion, Sahar," said Curator of Mammals Mark Kamhout. "Over the past couple weeks, we have introduced the lions both via scent and visually and in the coming weeks we will physically introduce the three lions who will share the indoor and outdoor exhibit space."

African lions are classified as vulnerable, with declining numbers due to habitat loss throughout the African continent. Lincoln Park Zoo scientists are working to conserve the species through the Serengeti Health Initiative.

Zalika and Kamali are on exhibit now.

PHOTOS: Two lionesses welcomed to Lincoln Park Zoo