‘Wonderful’ moment as zoo welcomes arrival of first cheetah for 24 years
Five-year-old Cleo arrived in Edinburgh from Fota Wildlife Park in the Republic of Ireland.
A zookeeper has described as “wonderful” the arrival of the first cheetah at Edinburgh Zoo for nearly a quarter of a century.
Five-year-old Cleo arrived at the zoo from Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland on Thursday, and she is currently settling into her new home in the capital.
Visitors have to wait for their first glimpse of the fast-moving feline though.
It is the first time for 24 years the zoo has been home to the large cat, which is classified as vulnerable in the wild, and they are hoping to get another cheetah to keep her company soon.
Alison Maclean, carnivore team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “Welcoming cheetahs back to the zoo after 24 years is wonderful.
“The species is vulnerable to extinction in the wild and we are hopeful we can bring in another cheetah soon to live with Cleo.”
Ms Maclean explained: “Every entry into our prize draw helps our charity create a world where nature is protected, valued and loved, and offers a fantastic personalised opportunity to experience the zoo and our animals.”
To enter the competition visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cheetah-and-friends-prize.
