Chester Zoo’s quartet of three-month-old cheetah cubs—Amabala, Jabari, Hasani, and Erindi—continue to thrive as they transition to a diet inspired by their natural eating habits. After being introduced to ground beef in late May, the cubs are now experiencing a new addition to their meals: frozen-thawed rabbits.
These carcass feedings are a crucial step in replicating the cubs’ natural diet. In the wild, young cheetahs consume prey that provides a balance of essential nutrients. The rabbits, complete with skin, fur, and bones, offer a valuable source of fiber to aid the cubs’ digestion.
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Additionally, the internal organs of the rabbits provide a rich supply of nutrients that are vital for the cubs’ healthy growth and development. This diverse diet supports their overall well-being and prepares them for the physical demands of life as apex predators.
One significant benefit of this feeding regimen is the strengthening of the cubs’ jaw muscles. Chewing on the tougher components of their meals, such as bones and fur, helps the cubs develop the strength and skills necessary to hunt and consume prey in the future.
As part of Chester Zoo’s conservation efforts, these feeding practices ensure the cubs grow into healthy, capable predators, ready to fulfill their role in the ecosystem. This approach not only supports their development but also underscores the importance of mimicking natural behaviors in conservation programs.
The cheetah cubs’ progress highlights the zoo’s dedication to preserving this vulnerable species, demonstrating how careful attention to diet and care can pave the way for a brighter future for cheetahs in the wild.
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