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In Photos: The Wild Cats of Kruger National Park

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Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)


Lions once roamed free over most of Africa and parts of Europe and Asia. Today their range is limited to the wild jungles of Africa as they are unable to coexist with human development and stock farming.

Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)


The cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) of Kruger have shown that this speedy predator have adapted well to the densely wooded environment of the national park and do not need the grasslands of the Serengeti to take advantage of their amazing speed.

Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)


But cheetahs have disappeared from over 75 percent of their historic worldwide home range, so the 100 or more individuals who make their home here are vital for the survival of their species. The common impala seems to be the preferred "meal of choice" for both males and females but all smaller antelope species are always in danger from this lightning-quick predator.

Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)


The cheetah has a small head for a predator cat, with long legs and a slender body style. It is designed for speed and cheetahs have been clocked to reach speeds up to 70 mph (113 kph) when in their deadly attack sprint. The cheetah is a reclusive animal and visitors to Kruger who see one can consider themselves quite lucky.

Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)

Scientists estimate that almost 70 percent of young cheetahs die before reaching adulthood. Cubs have a long dependence upon their mothers that is a significant factor that makes the world's cheetah population vulnerable to extinction.

Kruger Park

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(Image credit: Linda and Dr. Dick Buscher)


The many wild animals of Kruger National Park are some of our planet's most precious treasures. Thankfully, President Paul Kruger had the foresight and courage to work to preserve this special land for all the people of Earth to enjoy.