A mother cheetah and her cubs in the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

© Scott Davis/Tandem Stills + Motio

Masters of agility and cuteness. International Cheetah Day

In the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, where the African savanna stretches as far as the eye can see, cheetahs reign as the sprinting champions of the wildlife kingdom with measured speeds up to 80 miles per hour. Cheetahs, with their sleek bodies and black spots, thrive in this vast expanse, alertly watching for signs of prey. The reserve is known for its exceptional East African cheetah population. Sadly, habitat loss and human influence threatens their survival; hence, conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these incredible animals. Today, which is both International Cheetah Day and Wildlife Conservation Day, let's raise awareness about the cheetah's plight and the broader mission of wildlife conservation. It's a day to appreciate the beauty and importance of not just these wild cats, but all wildlife that shares the world with us.