Cheetahs in the Masai Mara

Gladys is driving us towards a pair of Cheetahs.

“Oh yes! There”. We’re an excited group of four.

A pair have been spotted walking in the long grass of this endless gently rolling landscape. We are soon far in front of them at a safe distance. Gladys has positioned us perfectly in line with their trajectory. All we have to do it sit and wait as the Cheetahs stroll towards us.

They are incredible.

Males will often follow females for days, waiting for a mating opportunity. His presence may trigger her reproductive cycle. He has a special stutter-bark which he reserves especially for such occasions. So do I.

They are beautiful and aware of the alarm calls of the Grey Crowned Cranes nearby.

They are clearly also alive to each other’s movements and presence.

This one has an intense ‘Cheshire Cat’ expression.

I think it’s more of a warning than a grin, though. Gorgeous, isn’t it?

When they decide to lie down in front of us I can hardly believe our luck.

And when they begin to roll and play, I think I’ve gone to heaven.

The floppy paws and pink tongue are adorable.

Males encounter females rarely in this vast landscape and this is his chance of mating.

Scientists have collected female Cheetah droppings and analysed them for hormones. As the male follows her he triggers increases in her reproductive hormones of oestrogen and progesterone.

Someone looks pleased about that.

I wish the same happened for me.