Zeus The Cheetah
The Big House CatZeus is Libran Wildlife Reserve’s cheetah. And in human terms, he’s now an old aged pensioner!
While he still enjoys the occasional prowl around the reserve, Zeus has always preferred the simple things in life… a warm patch of sunshine and good company. You’ll often find him stretched out in the sun, or in the shade of the lemon tree, watching the world go by and making the most of a peaceful afternoon with his friends nearby.
And recently, the old boy has developed quite a taste for milk and eggs. In fact, he’ll happily wander into the house and station himself by the counter until someone gets the hint and serves his latest favourite snack.
Lately he’s also developed a taste for coffee and in particular, a Hazelnut Latte!!!!! At nearly 15 years old, Zeus knows exactly what he wants, and he’s not shy about asking for it.
You’d be hard pushed to find a more domesticated cheetah, although that’s probably what happens when you’ve spent a lifetime around people. Since losing his lifelong companion Zara in January 2026, Zeus has enjoyed spending even more time with his human family, and they happily indulge him.
Before anyone asks, Zeus does not live in the house at Libran Wildlife Reserve. He has a large outdoor enclosure and habitat at the sanctuary. The old gentleman is simply allowed to visit when he feels like some company.
10 Things You Didn't Know
About Zeus The CheetahCheetahs are the fastest land animals, reaching speeds of around 60–70 mph (97–113 km/h) in short bursts.
They accelerate extremely quickly, going from 0 to 60 mph in roughly three seconds.
Cheetahs cannot roar like lions or tigers, but they can purr, chirp, growl and hiss.
Their black “tear marks” help reduce glare from the sun and may improve their focus while hunting.
Cheetahs hunt mainly during the day, which helps them avoid stronger nocturnal predators such as lions and hyenas
Their claws are only partly retractable, giving them extra grip when running at high speed.
A cheetah’s long tail acts like a rudder, helping it balance and turn sharply during a chase.
Cheetahs are built for speed rather than strength, so other predators often steal their kills.
Most wild cheetahs live in Africa, although a very small population of Asiatic cheetahs survives in Iran.
Cheetahs are classed as vulnerable, with habitat loss, conflict with humans and low genetic diversity threatening their survival.
Follow Zeus's Adventures
Life at Libran Wildlife Reserve@zeuszendafriends Zeus absolutely loves spending time in this natural habitat. 🌿🐆 As Zeus has got older, he prefers to stay close to his humans, so he has a large enclosure near the house where he can enjoy plenty of company and all the comforts he’s become used to over the years. This habitat gives him, and the other animals, the chance to really stretch their legs in a much more natural environment. It’s an important part of what we do here, helping animals build confidence, express their natural behaviours, and continue their rehabilitation. We won’t tell you everything, though… 🎥 Have a listen to Craig as he explains why this habitat is so important and what it means for the future of the reserve. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Zeus lives at a certified wildlife sanctuary. He cannot be released into the wild due to being human-raised, but he enjoys regular supervised access to this natural habitat as part of his enrichment and wellbeing. #ZeusTheCheetah #Cheetah #WildlifeSanctuary #BigCats #Conservation ♬ original sound - LibranWildlifeReserve🦁🦒🐆
