Keepers at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park between Hythe and Ashford in Kent have welcomed two female cheetahs.

The cheetahs, named Messina and Jofane, have arrived from Ebeltoft zoo in Denmark.

Richard Barnes, Head Big Cat Keeper said: "We are delighted to welcome Messina and Jofane to the park. Unfortunately the southern cheetah is threatened in the wild so it is a real pleasure to work with them."

The southern cheetah is a vulnerable species. It has been estimated that in 1900, more than 100,000 cheetahs were found throughout Africa and Asia.

Messina and Jofane settling in   Photo: Dave Rolfe©
 

Today around 7,500 to 10,000 animals remain in the wild. Losses of habitat, conflict with humans, as well as its own loss of genetic variation are the main threats facing the cheetah today.

Richard added: ‘We hope that early next year we will start introducing the females to our two males as part of our ongoing breeding programme.

The cheetah is a large-sized feline inhabiting most of Africa and one small area of the Middle East. The world’s fastest land mammal, the cheetah, is the most unique and specialized member of the cat family and can reach speeds of up to 70 mph. Unlike other cats, the cheetah has a leaner body, longer leg, and has been referred to as the “greyhound” of the cats.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©