White lions are regarded as a rarity in the wild. In captivity, however, it seems a different story.

In fact three white cubs were born to another lioness at the zoo in Schloss Holte-Stukenbrock, south-west of Hamburg, at exactly the same time.

She however, was happy to raise her litter herself.

Fortunately these two-week-old white lion cubs are in good hands with the zoo keepers adopting the maternal role.

In captivity, both male and female lions, who are unusually social compared to other cats, can live for over 20 years.

The German public has a soft spot for orphaned animals. Knut, the first polar bear born in Berlin Zoo for 30 years, became a national celebrity after his mother rejected him.

Life, however, hasn't been easy for the bear who attracts at least 200 visitors a day.

He is said to have become addicted to human attention. 'Knut is a problem bear who has become addicted to human beings,' German animal rights activist Frank Albrecht said.

Look at their cute fuzzy little faces. Awww.

Awwwwwwwwwwwww!

What a joy it would be to play with them. They are much more ferocious than a kitten would be, though. They are, after all, lions through and through. Unlike a kitten their fur is bristly. Look at the size of their paws. Same as with a big dog, you can tell they are going to be quite large when you look at the feet.

WONDERFUL clip, Merrie.

Four months from now, they'll be a real hand full, but they're so soft looking now.