© 2024 KLCC

KLCC
136 W 8th Ave
Eugene OR 97401
541-463-6000
klcc@klcc.org

Contact Us

FCC Applications
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Cheetah Program Founder Leaves Legacy At Wildlife Safari

Wildlife Safari

Arlene Herbert, who was instrumental in establishing the cheetah program at Wildlife Safari in Winston, Ore., passed away recently. Her legacy with the cats will be felt for years to come.

    

“The cheetahs, you know, were her passion,” said Cheetah Carnivore Supervisor, Sarah Roy.

According to Roy, cheetahs are one of the hardest cats to breed in captivity. But because of the secluded space set aside in the foothills of the park, Wildlife Safari has become the most successful cheetah breeding program in the Western Hemisphere.

“Back then that consisted of importing cheetahs which was, you know, not an easy task, not a cheap task,” Roy said. “They made that possible.”

When the park welcomed a new litter last spring, they invited Herbert to see them. Roy said she beamed with pride as she sat in the sunny hills watching the cubs with a view of the park below.

“And when she got to hold the new cubs, you know, just the biggest smile you can picture on someone’s face,” said Roy. “It was a really neat, special day for everybody up there.”

One of the cubs now bears a family name - Ellis. 

Knowing the footsteps she is following and Herbert’s passion, Roy said she is motivated to continue the legacy.

 

Aubrey Bulkeley co-created FLUX podcast, a three-part series to accompany award-winning UO School of Journalism and Communication publication, FLUX Magazine. Bulkeley finished her Master's degree in Journalism at the University of Oregon in 2019.
Related Content