At 14 years old, ‘Kifani’ was in her twilight years and had been suffering from a long-term eye problem. In recent weeks, her condition deteriorated and despite the best medical attention, it was clear that Kifani was in pain and not responding to treatment. Therefore the difficult, but humane decision was made to end any suffering. The average lifespan for Cheetah in the wild is 10 – 12 years.
Kifani had a colourful life. Born at the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre in South Africa she lived at various zoos, helping to educate people about this stunning species before finding a home at Perth Zoo in December 2010, living out her days in the African Savannah.
Kifani was a much loved part of the Perth Zoo family and will be sorely missed.