The Cheetahs are Here!

The Wilds, one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, announced the opening of its new Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center today. "It is the only facility of its kind in the country, maybe in the world," said Executive Director Dr. Evan Blumer.

The Carnivore Center features elevated walkways and a second-story observation area for excellent viewing of the animals in large enclosures. Additional boardwalks, viewing platforms and viewable animal management research areas are completed or near completion.

"One of the exciting things we have planned is a cheetah run- a mechanical device with a cloth lure used to exercise the cheetahs," said Dan Beetem, (pictured here) director of Animal Management.

A press conference and media day was held in the morning for area, regional and state media. Also getting a first-hand view was the staff of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau.

Pictured here is one of the female cheetahs posing for the camera.

For more information on the Wilds and future plans for the carnivore conservation center, log on to http://www.thewilds.org/.