Volker’s Bond with Captive Cheetah Eden
Dolph Volker, a zoology graduate and animal welfare advocate, has spent years volunteering at the Cheetah Experience sanctuary in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Eden, a cheetah born and raised at the sanctuary, grew comfortable around people because of her captive upbringing. Volker developed a unique bond with her, often sharing naps and affectionate moments that are uncommon for wild cheetahs.
The relationship earned Volker the nickname “The Cheetah Whisperer.” He also owns Gabriel the Cheetah and plans to establish a non-profit breeding center in South Africa.
Wild cheetahs generally avoid close contact with humans, so Eden’s behavior reflects her individual upbringing rather than typical cheetah behavior.
Key takeaways
- Dolph Volker is a zoology graduate and animal welfare advocate.
- Eden was born and raised in captivity at the Cheetah Experience.
- Volker and Eden share a close bond, unusual for wild cheetahs.
- Volker is nicknamed “The Cheetah Whisperer.”
- He owns Gabriel the Cheetah and plans a non-profit breeding center.
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Originally reported by iHeartCats. Read the full article.
Cover photo by Huy Phan via Pexels.
