Lion cubs take sink-or-swim test

Smithsonian National Zoo biologist Leigh Pitsko carries out a male lion cub for its swim test in a moat in Washington, D.C., May 6, 2014.

Four, unnamed 10-week old lion cubs were tested today for their ability to swim and remove themselves from their zoo habitat moat.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo biologist Leigh Pitsko releases a male lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper J.T. Taylor releases a female lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo biologist Leigh Pitsko releases a male lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper J.T. Taylor releases a female lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper J.T. Taylor releases a female lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper Kristen Clark chases a male lion cub during its swim test in the zoo habitat moat, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keepers J.T. Taylor and Kristen Clark carefully handle a female lion cub after its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper Marie Magnuson and zoo curator of cats Carig Saffoe are sprayed by a female lion cub after its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper J.T. Taylor carries out a female lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.

Lion Cubs at the Smithsonian Zoo

Smithsonian National Zoo animal keeper J.T. Taylor carries out a female lion cub for its swim test, May 6, 2014.