OneRepublic "SAY" - EPIC South African Cheetah Encounter Inside A Breeding Sanctuary
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Felt the need to publish a music video compilation of my buddy Gabe and siblings. An unbelievable Cheetah Experience; put to the song by OneRepublic-- SAY (All I Need).
Working with breeding center Cheetahs in South Africa, I gained a better understanding about these amazing large cats. From feeding, interacting, playing, caring, and forming bonds with individuals, I discovered there is WAY more to Cheetahs than what you see on Animal Planet, The Discovery Channel, or read in a book. You learn much more about anything with direct interaction.
Cheetahs have true feelings, they fear, get angry, feel pain, get lonely, annoyed, defensive, happy, content, show affection, show love, are curious, at times want solitude, get possessive, and even dream in their sleep. Each is an individual with unique personalities, but all behave like any other cat.
They will look into your eyes and remember your face and also give you warnings. We're told not to wear glasses so they can read and communicate with you. I have video footage of their 'stare' warnings. When they want left alone, they give you an eye piercing look for about 1.5 seconds; telling you to back off or get swatted. I learned the hard way of course. It was my 1st time encountering Cheetahs. I'll try and post some video of interesting captive Cheetah behavior and vocalizations I noticed.
Discovered unlike the lions, Cheetahs raised by humans are more willing to accept strangers. I think it's because of their physical nature, and thus their mental one. They are not designed to fight, but run. Their mental character is also one that runs rather than fights and so not as aggressive as a lion or leopard. Most of the hand raised cheetahs purr before strangers; accepting people. Those that don't simply keep away, even while cleaning their enclosures with them loose inside.
My 1st day I was told Gabriel liked men and that made it easier to befriend him. There were also female Cheetahs there that disliked men. I since learned that male Cheetahs are social and will make coalitions of other bachelor Cheetahs in the wild, hunting together and establishing territories. Females are solitary. I think that is why Gabe likes men, he thinks men are other Cheetahs and so forms bonds with them. It was very rewarding whatever the reason. I was able to trust him 100% with whatever he did.
"Feeding The World--- One Animal At A Time" Dolph C. Volker