There’s something truly special happening behind the scenes at Southwick’s Zoo, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. This spring, we welcomed the birth of three cheetah cubs, and their arrival has already captured the hearts of everyone on our team.
Born in early May to Nya, a first-time cheetah mom and part of the Zoo Association of America’s (ZAA) Animal Management Program, these cubs represent an incredible milestone, not just here at the zoo, but for the future of this vulnerable species.
The road hasn’t been without challenges. In the wild, only about 5% of cheetah cubs survive to adulthood, and while rejection is rare, it does happen. Thankfully, our experienced animal care team was ready to step in when this occurred with Nya.
From the moment they arrived, the cubs have been raised with round-the-clock feedings, daily health checks, and careful attention to their social development. “These cubs are already showing off their energy and personality,” says Betsey Brewer, our Executive Vice President and Board Chair for ZAA. “They’ve kept our team on their toes, and it’s been a joy to watch them grow and explore each day. The work our team has done to care for them is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Over the next few months, we’ll be slowly introducing the cubs to the public in a separate habitat in the park. It won’t be long before you can watch them chase, play, and learn about the world around them, right here at the zoo.
But these cubs aren’t just adorable ambassadors. Cheetahs are currently listed as Vulnerable, with fewer than 7,000 left in the wild. Through our work with ZAA’s conservation programs, we’re proud to play a role in safeguarding the future of this iconic species.
“These cubs represent more than just an exciting moment for the zoo,” adds Brewer. “They’re part of a larger purpose—to help secure the future of a species that’s facing real challenges in the wild. At the same time, they allow us to inspire the next generation of advocates.”
We can’t wait to introduce them to you. Keep an eye on our social media pages in the coming weeks for photos and updates on their journey, and start planning your summer visit to see these cubs in action.
