Two endangered cheetahs, classified as “vulnerable” by conservationists, have found a new home at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in South Yorkshire.
The new residents, four-year-old female Darcy and 13-year-old male Brooke have settled into a 10,000-square-meter territory specifically designed for them in Doncaster. Visitors will be able to see them in their new environment starting August 18.
Darcy arrived from Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland, while Brooke was relocated from the Bristol Zoo Project conservation park.
Cheetahs face threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and pollution, with only about 7,100 remaining in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Dr. Charlotte Macdonald, Director of Animals at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, described the new cheetah territory as comprising “three new reserves and two houses,” making it potentially the largest breeding complex of its kind in Europe.
The area features diverse landscapes with trees, rocks, sandy zones, caves, and lookout points to provide a stimulating environment for the cheetahs.
“We hope Darcy and Brooke will enjoy the space in cheetah territory,” said Dr. Macdonald. She explained that the cheetahs are housed separately to reflect their natural behavior: female cheetahs are typically solitary unless caring for cubs, while males are more social and often form all-male groups called coalitions.
The reserve includes distinct savannah-inspired areas for each, allowing them to roam freely and access private shelters for resting and sleeping.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park is also home to other endangered species, including Amur leopards, tigers, and rescued African lions.
CEO John Minion expressed excitement about the new additions, stating, “Visitors will have the chance to observe these incredible cats up close and learn about the challenges they face in the wild, as well as ways to support their conservation.”
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