March 10 (UPI) — The San Diego Zoo Safari Park announced the births of four male cheetah cubs, the first of their species to be born at the facility since 2020.
The zoo said first-time mother Kelechi gave birth to the cubs on Jan. 24.
“Just as they do in native habitats, Kelechi and her cubs are bonding in a private, behind-the-scenes den at the Carnivore Conservation Center,” zoo officials wrote in the announcement. “The cubs are now emerging from their den, giving guests an opportunity to see them as part of an Ultimate Safari.”
The zoo said cheetah mothers are very attentive to their babies.
“During these vital early months, Kelechi spends much of her time grooming her cubs and keeping them close. As they continue to grow more curious and active, they play and climb all over her as she keeps a close eye on them, chirping to call them closer when needed,” the announcement said.
The brothers are expected to form a lifelong bond.
“Male cheetahs, like these four brothers, form groups called ‘coalitions’ that will hunt and travel together for life, a unique trait for this primarily solitary species,” officials said.
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