Cheetah Cubs

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

The five cheetah cubs, born on May 28, 2011, had their first check-up this week—and they’re doing A-OK. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Conservation Biology Institute

The cubs appear to be healthy, active little critters, according to Smithsonian staff. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

“When I was weighing the last cub, he was being a very tough little guy,” says Adrienne Crosier, Smithsonian cheetah biologist. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Did you know cheetahs are the fastest animals on land? Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Because of human conflict, hunting, and habitat loss, there are only an estimated 7,500 to 10,000 cheetahs left in the wild. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Looks like this little guy is on the prowl for some tasty snacks. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier

Cheetah Cubs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Roar! Actually, did you know cheetahs don’t roar? They make chirping sounds. Photograph by Adrienne Crosier