A Sprint for Survival: Cheetah Brothers Mo and Bolt Arrive at Africa Alive

Africa Alive in Suffolk is delighted to announce the arrival of two male cheetahs, Brothers, Mo and Bolt, who have joined the park as part of an important international conservation effort to help safeguard the future of one of the world’s most threatened big cats.

The two 7-year-old brothers have arrived from The Big Cat Sanctuary as part of the European cheetah breeding programme, which is currently facing declining numbers.

By loaning Mo and Bolt to Africa Alive to join Duma, their 4-year-old resident female cheetah, the team hopes to support the long-term survival of the species by strengthening the breeding network and maintaining healthy genetic diversity within the population.

Cheetahs remain one of the most threatened big cat species, with wild populations continuing to fall due to habitat loss, human conflict and reduced genetic diversity.

Collaborative breeding programmes across European conservation zoos play a vital role in ensuring the species has a sustainable future.

Mo and Bolt’s arrival marks another significant step in Africa Alive’s commitment to global wildlife conservation. Their move follows the successful arrival of Duma, a female cheetah who joined the park from France in 2023.

The experienced animal care team at Africa Alive has been carefully preparing for Mo and Bolt’s arrival, ensuring the brothers have a calm and comfortable introduction to their new home and Duma. Over the coming weeks, the cheetahs will gradually settle into their environment while keepers monitor their wellbeing.

Zoe Nunn, Animal Manager at Africa Alive, said, 'We are thrilled at Mo and Bolt's arrival and very hopeful that our Duma will happily pair off with one of them. In the past, we have successfully bred a number of cheetahs, and it would be amazing to have cheetah cubs at the park again.’