Bear births broadcast online

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ELY, Minn., Jan. 14 (UPI) -- The North American Bear Center in Minnesota broadcast the births of a pair of black bears during the weekend at their mother's den.

The center said Lily the black bear, who previously gave birth to cub Hope in 2010 and cubs Faith and Jason in 2011, gave birth early Saturday morning at her den near Ely and the event was broadcast worldwide via webcam, the Duluth News Tribune reported Monday.

"Lily was restless Friday evening and surprised us by giving birth a week earlier than she has previously," said Lynn Rogers of the North American Bear Center. "We're thrilled to hear the sounds of healthy cubs."

The cubs have not yet been named by the center, officials said. Previous births have been followed by cub naming contests open to the public.