The first thing I did this morning out in the zoo was to tag along while the carnivore keepers took the cheetah cubs for a walk. Apparently they do this most every morning before opening, for enrichment. My question is who gets more enriched -- the animals or their humans?!?!
I can't tell you how exciting it is to see these tall cats, sleek and gorgeous, saunter out on a leash, completely calm and comfortable among us. Watching one climb up and perch on a picnic bench and get his ears scratched by his keeper was nothing short of intoxicating (This is the only big cat that purrs and they do it for the same reasons domestic cats do. And it is LOUD!). Every cell in my being was drawn to reach out too, yet the rule for anyone but their handlers is to stay at least two leash length's away.
They're great ambassadors for their species. Cheetahs are perhaps so well suited because they're non-confrontational and I'm told they don't prey upon anything bigger than them. But it's a testament to their trainers that they can walk around the public safely --albeit carefully. They stick close to the animal, one on each side escorting them to a spot where people can see, and other staff is never far. Sigfried and Roy would tell you their tigers can be tamed, and folks who raise Grizzly's may too. But everyone agrees it's imperative to remain acutely aware of their wild nature while enjoying the miracle of getting close.
The path they took went right past the giraffes who live next door. Surely with their height they've had no problem watching the cheetahs day in and day out. But as we walked past, all five of these gentle giants focused on the cats, their curious faces on those towering necks peering intently at them and us. I've never seen all five of them walk together, all at once like a herd (and so quickly) to follow us, legs akimbo, batting their ultra-long eyelashes. Since their fencing is almost invisible, it gives the illusion that they are free and just happened to walk up. It's just too surreal for me to accurately describe. Fortunately I took a snap to capture what I could.
This is a terrible shot because they were backlit by the rising sun but it's better than nothing. I just knew it was one of those images I'd never forget in all my life yet would never be able to describe how it felt to have the rapt, active attention of these 5 amazing beings. Look closely til you make out all their heads. From left to right you have the male (he's tallest, natch, and I have a total crush on him), one female, two babies and another female.
After the walk, one of the cats just wasn't ready
to go back into his habitat. He hesitated at the gate several times, but proceeded obediently. Once inside though, he decided to clunk his long
limbs down, buying himself a few minutes more.
The second thing I did on my first day as a keeper aid was shovel bear poop.... ah, but that's a story for tomorrow.
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