International Cheetah Day: Lexi's story of hope and return

DECEMBER 4 is International Cheetah Day, a special day to raise awareness about the conservation of cheetahs, which are Africa's most endangered big cats.

Felidae, located just outside Kimberley, is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to giving wild animals a second chance. Lexi is the only cheetah that is part of their conservation family at present.

Lexi’s story – A journey of hope

Lexi's journey began when she and her brother Max arrived at Felidae as young cubs, separated from their mother in the wild. Despite the trauma they endured, the team at Felidae gave them the care and stability they needed. Sadly, Max passed away four years ago, leaving Lexi on her own.

With fewer than 7,000 cheetahs remaining in the wild, every genetically valuable female plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. Cheetahs are notoriously difficult to breed in captivity, but Felidae is determined to give Lexi a chance to contribute to her species.

A male cheetah was brought in from Bela-Bela, but Lexi rejected him. Now, she's been moved to a specialised breeding centre where she can choose her own mate, increasing the chances of successful breeding.

 "For this reason, and with conservation as our priority, Lexi has now been moved temporarily to a specialised breeding centre where she will be introduced to different males. This gives her the freedom to choose a partner naturally, increasing the chances of successful breeding."

"Once we know whether Lexi accepts one of the males or not, she will return home to Felidae, where she will continue to be part of our conservation family," said Tercia Burger.

Cheetah facts: Built-in sunglasses and more!

• Built-in sunglasses: Those bold black "tear marks" aren't just for show; they reduce glare and help cheetahs see clearly during midday hunts.
• Speed demons: Cheetahs accelerate from 0 to 120 km/h faster than a sports car, but can only maintain that pace for 20-30 seconds.
• Permanent running spikes: Cheetahs' claws don't retract like other cats', giving them traction during high-speed pursuits.
• Chirp, don't roar: Cheetahs make high-pitched, birdlike calls instead of roars due to their unique larynx structure.
• Punk-rock cubs: Newborns have a silvery mantle of hair, mimicking a fierce honey badger to discourage predators.
• Strategy over strength: Cheetahs rely on stealth and timing, tripping prey with a precise claw hook.
• Purr-fect sound: Relaxed cheetahs produce a loud, deep purr that can be heard across an enclosure.

Visit Felidae

Join the conservation effort and learn more about Lexi and other big cats at Felidae's educational tours, held every Saturday at 11am. Bookings are available during the week. Contact 072 363 8773 or visit http://linktr.ee/felidae for more information.

Support the cause

Felidae relies on community support to continue its mission. Donate, volunteer, or spread the word to help protect South Africa's wildlife heritage.