Yorkshire Wildlife Park says goodbye to one of world's oldest northern cheetahs

Yorkshire Wildlife Park has paid tribute to one of the world's oldest northern cheetahs after he was put to sleep at the age of 16.

Brooke, a 16-year-old northern cheetah, was peacefully put to sleep surrounded by his favourite animal rangers.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park said Brooke had naturally begun to slow down as he entered his later years, with animal rangers and its veterinary team carrying out regular assessments and providing tailored treatment to keep him comfortable and happy.

Brooke and his sister Katie, who lives in France, were among the oldest northern cheetahs in the world.

Brooke arrived at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in August 2023 and went on to make an important contribution to the European Breeding Programme, fathering two litters of cubs.

His first litter, brothers Kendi and Tafari, was born in May 2024.

The pair have since moved to Chester Zoo, where they are expected to make their own contribution to the breeding programme in the future.

Brooke became a father for a second time on Valentine's Day this year when he and Darcy welcomed four female cubs – Dua, Mila, Rosa and Valentina.

As well as contributing to the breeding programme, Brooke acted as an ambassador for cheetahs in the wild.

He helped raise awareness and funds for the Cheetah Conservation Fund and its work to protect wild cheetahs and their ecosystems.

Paying tribute, Yorkshire Wildlife Park said: “Brooke was deeply loved by the YWP team and visitors alike, and his presence will be profoundly missed. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy, both through his cubs and through the awareness he helped raise for cheetahs in the wild.

“He will always hold a special place in our hearts.”