Hoedspruit Research Center at Kapama
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The Hoedspruit Research and Breeding Center for Endangered Species is at Kapama and is an example of the role of the private sector in the conservations of South Africa's rare species. We went especially to see the king cheetahs. If you are able to stay the whole day you can see Barbary lion also.
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There were lots of cheetahs and cheetah cubs to see. The idea of them being behind fences bothered me a little, but these were all ones who were not able to live in the wild. They all appeared healthy, clean, and well fed. And very few were pacing.
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The king cheetahs were spectacular to see. I was surprised to learn that they are seldom seen in the wild not only because they are very rare, but also because the big horizontal stripes make them more visible and more vulnerable than regular cheetah.
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The king cheetahs were very interested in the regular cheetahs next door and hardly paid any attention to each other.
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This was the little lady who caught their attention. Our guide went in with this one who had come from a pet situation so could be handled. She showed us various things about the structure of the cheetah and for the first time I really saw that the last half of a cheetah's tail is definitely flattened to help with its rudder action.
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This pair were definitely in a painting pose. I smudged out some of the fencing--don't know if that helps or not. The center had special and separate large areas for breeding, whelping, raising young, etc., and all looked well cared for. Their introductory film was excellent also.
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Another species the center does research on is the wild dog. It is the most endangered predator in Africa. There is a move afoot to change the name to painted wolf in hopes of improving their image. These two were exhausted from playing.
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The adults had more sense and were resting in the shade on such a warm day. Next we go cruising....sort of.
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Click on the zebra to go to page thirteen.
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