Once considered sacred by the Egyptians, cheetahs are one of the world’s oldest big cat species. They also hold the title of being the fastest land animal on Earth, with them being capable of reaching speeds up to 60-70 mph (97-113 km/h).
Sadly though, the population of wild cheetahs has fallen significantly over the last 100 years, with only 7,100 remaining in the wild. Classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), they face numerous threats that jeopardise their survival. These threats include human-wildlife conflict, poaching, illegal capture, and habitat loss, all of which contribute to the drastic decline in their population.
We’re currently working with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) to raise awareness and funds for these incredible animals across the world.
Established in 1990, CCF is dedicated to saving cheetahs in the wild and protecting their ecosystem. CCF is working to turn the tide on the decline of wild cheetahs and protect this iconic species from extinction. WildLife Foundation and Yorkshire Wildlife Park are both proud partners of the CCF. YWP has welcomed the birth of two Northern Cheetahs born to mum Darcy through its endangered species program. Together with CCF, WildLife Foundation will work tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for CCF’s work, in Africa and beyond.