The Cheetah Watch Campaign

As the world's fastest land animal, the cheetah is the quintessence of speed. With its narrow body, small head and supple spine, this highly specialized member of the cat family can reach speeds of more than 60 miles per hour in pursuit of its prey. Although once widespread across Africa and Asia, the cheetah has become endangered, largely because of loss of habitat and human persecution. Most cheetahs now exist in sub-Saharan Africa at very low densities. They are virtually gone from Asia, with perhaps 50 animals remaining in an isolated region of Iran .

WCS and Zoological Society of London scientists working in Tanzania have conducted extensive research on the country's cheetah populations, particularly in the world-famous Serengeti National Park, where records of individual cheetahs (each animal has its own unique spot pattern) date back to 1975. Now, researchers are enlisting the park's visitors to help keep track of its cheetah population, in much the same way that ornithologists use photos and information from "citizen scientists" to monitor trends in bird populations. A photo taken by a tourist, coupled with the time and location, can provide scientists with valuable insights about how cats use their environment. This information can then be applied to ensure a future for this big cat.

Click here for a pamphlet (PDF format) describing how you can be a part of the Cheetah Watch Campaign.

To make a donation to help support this project please send a check to Wildlife Conservation Society, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10460-1099 or call (718)220-6891.  Please mark the check "Wildlife Conservation Society (Cheetah Watch Campaign, Tanzania).  Or, click here to make a secure donation online.