Spots and Speed: The Race to Save Cheetahs with Sue Heim

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode we hear from Sue Heim, an interpretive volunteer at the San Diego Zoo and dedicated volunteer with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF). Fresh from a month-long trip in Namibia, Sue shares her firsthand experiences in cheetah conservation, discussing the unique traits, challenges, and conservation strategies for cheetahs. Key Topics Covered: - Sue"s Journey to Conservation: Learn how Sue"s passion for cheetahs led her from San Diego to Namibia, working alongside experts at CCF. - Understanding Cheetah Characteristics: Sue discusses the unique behaviours and physical traits of cheetahs, including their unparalleled speed and distinctive “tear marks.” - Cheetah Conservation Challenges: Key threats to cheetah survival include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and the illegal pet trade. Sue explains how these factors impact cheetah populations. - Innovative Conservation Efforts: From livestock-guarding dogs to anti-poaching initiatives, discover how CCF and local communities collaborate to protect cheetahs and educate the public. - A Day in the Life of a Volunteer: Sue recounts her diverse experiences at CCF, including feeding cheetahs, training livestock-guarding dogs, and helping with the "Dancing Goat Creamery" at the centre. - Get Involved: Sue shares actionable steps listeners can take to support cheetah conservation from anywhere in the world, including donations, virtual challenges, and zoo volunteering. Notable Quotes: "Cheetahs rely on speed rather than brute force—an incredible animal that runs up to 70 miles per hour." "They are non-confrontational, even in the wild. If you see a cheetah, it’s more likely to hiss and run away than to attack." "We’re teaching local farmers sustainable ways to protect livestock and reduce conflicts with cheetahs, from specialised fencing to livestock-guarding dogs." How You Can Help: 1. **Donate to the Cheetah Conservation Fund**: Your contributions help fund critical conservation efforts across Africa. 2. **Spread Awareness**: Educate friends and family about the plight of cheetahs and the ongoing conservation efforts. 4. **Volunteer Locally**: Many zoos and conservation organisations offer opportunities to support big cat conservation. Resources: - Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) https://cheetah.org/ - Follow Sue Heim"s Journey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sue.heim   for insights and photos from her experiences at CCF. Enjoyed the Episode? Please subscribe, share with friends, and leave us a review! For more updates, follow us on social media. Connect with Undercurrent Stories:   - Website: https://www.undercurrentstories.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undercurrentstories/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/undercurrentstories Intro and outro music, "Time for a Coffee"  Bob Wells © 2020 Question or comment? Send us a text message. www.undercurrentstories.com