BALTIMORE, MD – The Maryland Zoo is saddened to announce the loss of its remaining male cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), Davis, who was humanely euthanized due to complications from chronic gastrointestinal issues that worsened recently in spite of intensive care from the Zoo’s medical and husbandry teams. At nearly 12 years of age, Davis lived beyond the median life expectancy for cheetahs.
After his brother, Bud, passed away in 2023, Davis adjusted well to living on his own in the habitat and will be remembered as a much-loved resident of the Zoo’s African Journey boardwalk.
Cheetahs, the world’s fastest land mammal, number fewer than 12,500 and are increasingly rare in Africa, particularly outside of protected national parks. Human pressures are largely responsible for the cheetah’s endangered status, including decreasing habitat, poaching, and extermination by ranchers. Zoos are an important link to saving the cheetah. North American zoos, including The Maryland Zoo, work cooperatively on research to learn more about this magnificent cat and support conservation efforts of this species in its native range.
In honor of Davis, we created a memorial comment form below. Messages submitted will be shared with the teams that cared for Davis. Your kind words are enough, but anyone wishing to further support the Zoo, our conservation mission, and Davis’ legacy can make a direct donation.
Send A Message To The Zoo In Memory Of Davis
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