Rare Sight: Cheetah Gives Birth to a Bumper Litter of Seven Cubs in Maasai Mara

A cheetah has given birth to a giant litter of seven adorable cubs who have already escaped the clutches of a lioness

In a heartwarming event that has captured the attention of wildlife enthusiasts worldwide, a cheetah in Maasai Mara has given birth to an exceptionally large litter of seven cubs. This remarkable occurrence is considered rare in the cheetah community, making it an exciting moment for researchers and conservationists alike.

In the wild cheetahs usually give birth to three to five young

The cheetah, known for its incredible speed and agility, is also recognized for its typically small litter sizes. Therefore, the birth of seven healthy cubs is not only surprising but also offers hope for the conservation of this endangered species.

The cubs are vulnerable to predators from birth

Maasai Mara, a renowned wildlife reserve in Kenya, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the majestic cheetah. The reserve’s vast savannahs provide an ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures, allowing them to thrive and reproduce.

The bumper brood was spotted this week in the Maasai Mara by photographers Yaron Schmid and Amy Montminy
Being a cheetah cub is dangerous
They had already escaped the clutches of a lioness who had tried to kill them the night before
Wildlife photographer and vet Yaron said luckily for these tiny cats they had a clever mum named Siligi to look after them
Amy Montminy, who runs YS Wildlife Photography and Safaris with Yaron, said Siligi will hopefully be able to raise some of the cubs to adulthood
Cheetah cubs experience a low survival rate due to predators like lions, hyenas, etc, as well as disease
Only about 10 per cent of cheetah cubs reach maturity, so to see seven cubs at once from one litter is rare
As the cheetah population continues to face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict, this rare event serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation initiatives. By raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, we can all play a part in safeguarding the future of these iconic big cats and ensuring that they continue to roam the wilds of Maasai Mara for generations to come.