Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
‘Full circle’ as cubs complete picture
CANGO Wildlife Ranch in Oudtshoorn recently celebrated the birth of three beautiful and healthy cubs born to mother Ubuntu, a four-year-old cheetah.
The cubs were born just days after the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup.
“The cubs stay with their mom for the first two weeks of their lives, consuming her valuable colostrum, building up lifesustaining antibodies to ensure that they are healthy and strong. They then move to our hand-raising centre, a specialised environment where our expert team of carers work around the clock to ensure optimal care for the precious youngsters.
“In the wild, the survival rate for cheetah cubs is a shockingly low 30%, while through our years of experience and our developed and proven methods, we maintain a survival rate of more than 90%, which has been consistent for well over a decade.
“As members of Waza (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), comprising 300 premium animal facilities worldwide,our primary objective is to focus on vulnerable and endangered species management. Our goal, through our Cheetah Preservation Foundation, is to achieve quality lineage through ethical practices in accordance with the global requirements.
“This aims our current target of cheetah contributions to just one litter per year,” the Ranch said.
“While still celebrating the World Cup Rugby ‘high’, we were gifted with this added reason for celebration … the birth
of three more South African ambassadors!
“Without hesitation, we knew that the biggest and strongest cub had to be named ‘Siya’ in honour of our national hero. A fitting tribute to a human who has spent the majority of his life making an enormous difference in the lives of others, both on and off the rugby field.
“He is a symbol of all that is wonderful about our country. This respected and dedicated leader, renowned for his hard work, perseverance and determination, has blessed our beautiful rainbow nation with renewed hope and unity; much
like these cheetahs do in the world of conservation.
“Much to the delight and excitement of local Springbok supporters, Rugby South Africa executive member Hennie Baartman toured to Oudtshoorn on Monday with the brilliantly glowing Rugby World Cup trophy.
“During his visit, he was kind enough to share the moment with us, our little litter, and our Siya. He was kind enough to let us all experience the presence of the Web Ellis trophy, making our whole story, so full circle.”