Keepers at Longleat are abuzz with anticipation as three young cheetah males, Themba, Ajani, and Lunis, settle into their new home in the heart of Wiltshire’s famed safari park.
Hopes are high for a springtime romance as these sleek predators acclimate to their surroundings, with the possibility of love blossoming amidst the sprawling grounds of Longleat.
The arrival of Themba, Ajani, and Lunis follows the relocation of resident cheetahs Mo and Bolt to the Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, as part of the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme. Born at Longleat in August 2019, these three brothers, though related to Xena, one of the park’s female cheetahs, hold the promise of contributing to the park’s vital breeding programme.
Kayleigh Smith, their dedicated keeper, expressed delight at their arrival, highlighting their playful and energetic nature. “They are wonderful,” she remarked. “We are really happy to have them and are eagerly anticipating the possibility of more cheetah cubs, which is crucial for the breeding programme.”
Visitors to Longleat can now experience the thrill of racing against a cheetah on a new ‘sprint track’ as part of the exclusive Predators event, running throughout the Easter holidays.
This interactive experience allows guests to compare their running speed with that of a cheetah, offering a unique insight into the incredible athleticism of these magnificent creatures.
The Predators event, including the ‘sprint track,’ is included in the day ticket until April 14th, 2024, providing an exciting opportunity for visitors to engage with the safari park’s carnivores and learn more about their remarkable skills and characteristics.
