New cheetahs make debut at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The fastest animal on land has arrived at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (AGCZ).

Zoo officials announced two new female cheetahs—Taj and Shani—were joining the enclosure for just six months. Keep reading to find out why their stay is so short, and how zookeepers are making the most of their time on the Gulf Coast.

Meet Taj and Shani

Taj and Shani came to the zoo as part of the Zoological Association of America’s Animal Management Program (AMP).

If that sounds like a lot of official words, I’ll break it down—cheetahs are endangered, and programs like the AMP can move endangered animals around accredited zoos to give them the best chance at reproduction. It also allows zoos to introduce and educate the public about animals the facility wouldn’t normally house.

The addition of Taj and Shani is the first time the AGCZ has housed cheetahs—even temporarily. Something zoo officials are thrilled about:

“While they are a large cat, they don’t roar. They meow and purr more like a house cat. But they are definitely not house cats…It is our hope that our guests will see these cheetahs and be inspired to help support their conservation and increase awareness of the world around us.”

Joel M. Hamilton, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Executive Director

Zookeepers say the girls are adjusting well to their new home and love lounging under the shade of palm trees.

Taj and Shani will only be at the zoo for around six months, so if you want to see them for yourself, sooner is better than later!

• Address: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Hours: 9AM-4PM, daily
• Admission: Adults (13-61), $22.95 | Children (3-6), $14.95 | Seniors (62+), $19.95
• More info

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