The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, formally known as the De Wildt Cheetah Centre, is a breeding sanctuary for cheetahs and other endangered animals. It was founded in 1971 by conservationist Ann van Dyk and is situated in the foothills of the Magaliesberg, about an hour outside Johannesburg. A day trip to the centre is well worth the drive if you’re interested in getting to know more about this important cause.
The centre has played a crucial role in the protection of cheetahs in South Africa, and has so far managed to breed roughly 600 – an astounding achievement considering the cheetah population in South Africa was estimated at 700 when the De Wildt breeding programme first started. In 1986, the centre celebrated its first major success and received international recognition when the cheetah was removed from the South African endangered species list.
A number of other creatures are also housed there including African wild dogs, brown hyenas, servals, suni antelopes, riverine rabbits and a population of vultures.
The centre is a non-profit institute and relies mainly on donations from sponsors, support from the public and income from tourism. It operates an outreach programme, visiting schools and institutions in an effort to raise awareness about cheetahs and nature conversation. An “ambassador cheetah” is present at these demonstrations, allowing people a chance to get a closer look. Visitors to the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre are able to book tours around the facilities and visit the cheetah enclosures.
Be sure to inquire about the cheetah run when, three times a week, visitors are invited to witness the ambassador cheetahs’ exercise as they chase after a high-speed lure. There are a variety of educational tour packages to choose from, and bookings should be made in advance. Tours include a game drive through the sanctuary and a chance to learn more the centre and its wildlife. Special private group tours and exclusive tours for two people can also be arranged. If you’re interested in spending the night in this tranquil part of Gauteng, they also offer accommodation at their lodge – also an ideal place for lunch parties and special occasions.
If you’re interested in becoming a bit more involved, there are several ways in which you can help the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre continue to make a difference. One of the more popular options is to symbolically adopt an animal. Your donations will go towards maintaining and caring for the animals and you will receive an adoption certificate and photographs of your new ward via email.
NAME
The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre – De Wildt
PHONE
+27 (0)12 504 9906/7/8 or 083 892 0515
No comments:
Post a Comment