https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svke-k2h9ve
A charming duo, Rozi the Cheetah Cub and Ziggy the Labrador-Kelpie-Collie mix, demonstrate that the bonds of brotherhood can cross species lines.
Logi was brought into the world via an emergency cesarean section in late February at the Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, Australia, after her mother, Siri, went into labor ahead of schedule.
Unfortunately, Siri was unable to produce milk. Rozi struggled with health issues during her initial weeks, which necessitated the separation of mother and cub.
As Rozi’s two siblings were stillborn, she became the only surviving cub, facing at least 18 months before she could participate in the zoo’s breeding program.
The zookeepers determined that in order for Rozi to grow and socialize adequately, thus improving her chances of breeding in the future, she would need companions.
Ten years prior, Logi’s mother had a dog for companionship, along with a puppy. This created a successful dynamic with the American Cheetah Cubs, according to Jordan Michelmore, Cheetah Keeper at Dubbo Zoo.
Domestic cats wouldn’t be suitable, she notes, as Logi’s playmates need to be sturdy enough to engage with a cheetah for at least a year.
“Dogs possess greater resilience and energy. Their size also aligns more closely with the cheetah as she matures,” Michelle adds.
3 Months of Ziggy and Logi
Sharon McDreddie
When both were about two months old, Ziggy and Logi were gradually introduced. Initially, Ziggy needed careful quarantine and vaccination, but after two weeks, they were playing and cuddling together.
“Their energy levels, play styles, and sizes complement each other well,” says Michelmore. “The liveliness and playfulness of puppies mesh nicely with Logi’s current stage.”
As female cheetahs tend to become solitary after 12-18 months, Michelmore anticipates a future separation for Ziggy, which will involve placing him in a new home.
“We will take cues from their relationship and can start to transition Ziggy out when Logi shows she doesn’t desire his company as much,” shares Michelle.
However, she is also considering the possibility of keeping Ziggy around. This way, Rozi and Ziggy could maintain their bond. Several zoos in the United States have found that cheetahs and their adopted siblings can coexist into adulthood.
She likens Ziggy to a “nuisance brother,” stating, “The joy she expresses upon his return to her space is unmistakable.”
“I also want Ziggy to grow into a well-rounded dog. His upbringing is truly unique for a puppy.”
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Source: www.newscientist.com
