New Cheetahs Arrive at Binder Park Zoo
Wild Africa has three new inhabitants.
Photo courtesy Binder Park Zoo
Katie, Madison, and Mohini have just arrived in Battle Creek. The 18-month-old sisters traveled from the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C. and will live together on exhibit in Wild Africa at Binder Park Zoo, according to a press release.
Cheetahs were once prevalent throughout much of Africa and Asia but are now facing great danger of becoming extinct. Their population at one time flourished, but due to loss of habitat, misunderstanding by farmers and poaching, it is estimated that today there are only 10,000 left in the wild; a number that has dwindled from 100,000 in the 1900’s.
"Saving our world's wildlife is going to take everyone stepping up and taking action. Thanks to a lot of dedicated people and organizations, many conservation efforts and programs being done in the field are working, but we have a long ways to go."-Kari Parker, Binder Park Zoo Marketing Manager
Binder Park Zoo has actively played a part in the conservation of this endangered species since 1987, when they first received cheetahs. Since the opening of the cheetah exhibit several cubs have been born at the Zoo including a pair that reached awareness on a national level. In 1997, Binder Park Zoo received national recognition in both Life and Time magazines for two-baby cheetah cubs born that year. Having cheetahs at the zoo and receiving national recognition has helped elevate the awareness of their survival issues and has given Michiganders the opportunity to learn about the plight of the cheetah. Continuing this education, now 28 years later, Binder Park Zoo is proud to have an ongoing participation in this conservation initiative.
More From WBCKFM
