Marking International Cheetah Day this year, the Cincinnati Zoo has witnessed its three cheetah cubs, Zola, Lulu, and Kiara, who were born last November, tip the scales at a hefty 75 pounds each. The trio has blossomed into stars of the zoo's Cat Ambassador Program, sparking interest and conservation efforts among visitors locally and globally. According to the Cincinnati Zoo, these cubs serve as vital representatives for their species by raising awareness and advocating for wild conservation initiatives.
Despite their charming antics and rapid growth, cheetahs remain the most endangered big cats in Africa, with their numbers plummeting below 7,000. Partnering with the Cheetah Outreach Trust, the Cincinnati Zoo contributes to an innovative approach addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Farmers receive livestock guardian dogs trained to deter African predators, effectively reducing tensions and the risks to both livestock and cheetahs. Visitors who enjoy the cheetah shows at the zoo are also contributing, with a part of the ticket sales funneled towards supporting such conservation projects.
Throughout the year, Zola, Lulu, and Kiara have not only grown in stature but also in personality. "Kiara, the largest, is great at training and is typically able to pick up on things a little quicker than her sisters," the Cincinnati Zoo shared. Zola has emerged as the more playful, often seen engaging in a bit of tail-chewing mischief earlier this year, while Lulu sports a liking for enrichment toys, showing off her keen soccer skills.
Developing close bonds between animals and trainers is essential, ensuring comfort and easing the training process. The Cincinnati Zoo's trainers have established such a connection with the three cubs, empowering them to be leashed and explore new environments at the zoo and beyond. "They’ve also been taught a tail blood draw behavior to help with their medical care and are mastering the lure system," added the zoo, according to the Cincinnati Zoo. With such care, Zola, Lulu, and Kiara have made strides, quite literally, on the zoo's lure system, their confidence on the upswing with each practice run.
The cheetahs have started on a simple circuit and are now running the full perimeter of the yard, chasing a fluffy dog toy tied to a wheel – an activity that mimics their natural hunting instincts. "Make sure to come visit our cheetah encounter next year to see Zola, Lulu, and Kiara reach speeds upwards of 70 mph. It is a sight that never gets old!" the Cincinnati Zoo encourages. Indeed, the chance to witness these aspiring sprinters in action stands as an opportunity for visitors to understand the grace and speed of cheetahs while supporting broader conservation efforts.
