Here we are! Day one of cheetah land conservation work. The internet connection is pretty spotty, so I shall keep my message short.
Today was orientation day. I found out how the center works and ALL the different things that need to happen in order for cheetahs to survive – not only do cheetahs need to be feed, their cages cleaned, we also need to do a lot of work to keep the place running (such as water plants, office work). There is a lot to do.
This morning I was treated to a cheetah run! The center founder, Dr. Laurie Marker, let us get into the pen with the 4 ambassador cheetahs (TigerLily, Senay, Peter, and Kaijay). These cheetahs aren’t tame but they are used to humans so they won’t attack. We saw them take off and chase these lures for exercise. Afterwards, we were allowed to stand close and take a photo (but no petting!). In the afternoon, we watched cheetahs being fed. Tomorrow the real work begins. I shall be cleaning cages and looking for cheetah scat (in laymen’s terms: poop).
I cannot attach a picture with this post…but I shall soon to attempting again. What kind of sound do you think a male cheetah makes?
p.s. In answer to Sam’s question – I sleep in a rondovel (African hut) on a bed.
Thomas and Ann Marie Polce: We wish you all the best Ms.Melyan/Jen. What an amazing opportunity! We’re so excited to follow your travels! Be safe! Curious how the scat cleaning went?!
Wow – this is what I hope to do somewhere someday. I hope it is as rewarding as it sounds!
Have fun with that cheetah poop! 🙂 I think I need some of those lures for my dogs…