Six baby cheetahs delight visitors at Metro Richmond Zoo
Six cheetah cubs, shown with their mother, were born at the Metro Richmond Zoo.
Image: Metro Richmond Zoo/ The Washington Post
In a heartwarming development for wildlife enthusiasts, a litter of six baby cheetahs born at the Metro Richmond Zoo is captivating visitors with their spirited antics. The cubs, welcomed into the world on May 13, made a joyous public debut on August 25, marking a successful chapter in the zoo's impressive conservation efforts.
Zoo officials shared the delightful news of the cubs' birth on August 26, highlighting that the little felines are currently thriving and reaching their developmental milestones. As they approach three months of age, the energetic cubs can be seen running, exploring, and playfully wrestling with one another in their specially designed cheetah habitat.
Named after notable African cities, the cubs include three males - Lagos, Bukavu, and Cairo - and three females, Matola, Kampala, and Lusaka. This litter is among the largest born at the zoo, a testament to the successful breeding programme the facility has cultivated since its inception.
According to lead zookeeper Kristina Coonley, their mother, Zuri, is displaying exemplary maternal behaviour. “Zuri is very attentive,” Coonley explained. “If they’re not near her, she calls them to make sure she finds everybody.” Her vigilance is evident, especially when Zuri instinctively positions herself between the cubs and any potential threats from nearby animals, ensuring her youngsters remain safe.
Some of the six cheetah cubs born at the Metro Richmond Zoo play.
Image: Metro Richmond Zoo/ The Washington Post
Coonley further observed that the cubs are beginning to show their distinct personalities as they approach weaning. “Some are shy; one is bold and brave - that’s Lusaka," she noted. Cairo appears to be the most curious of the bunch, often trailing behind as he seeks to explore every nook and cranny of their habitat.
The remarkable cheetah conservation programme at Metro Richmond Zoo has produced 167 cheetah cubs since 2013, making it one of the most successful initiatives in the United States. Coonley stated that genetic diversity and behavioural traits are meticulously examined to ensure optimal breeding pair selection.
Cheetah mama Zuri is shown with her cubs at the Metro Richmond Zoo.
Image: Metro Richmond Zoo/The Washington Post
Five-year-old Zuri is no stranger to motherhood, and the cub's father, Ramses, boasts an impressive lineage, having sired 25 cubs at the age of 13. This ongoing commitment to breeding and conservation not only bolsters the cheetah population but plays a crucial role in safeguarding the species for future generations.
As these cubs continue to grow and thrive, they serve as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts. Metro Richmond Zoo invites the public to come and witness the playful spirit of these magnificent cheetahs, promising an unforgettable experience for all ages.