What happened when a wildlife photographer woke up with a curled up cheetah beside him |
The unexpected experience can make a lasting impression in the wild, even for people who are close to wildlife every day. For South African wildlife photographer Dolph Volker that became a reality when a female cheetah rested her head next to him and refused to move. The encounter, which occurred at a wildlife sanctuary, showed an unusual level of comfort between a human and a wild animal.Such experiences are uncommon, but they occasionally happen in managed conservation settings where animals receive long-term care. This event was recorded, and what was surprising was that it happened naturally and without interference.
Conservation at cheetah experience sanctuary
That chance encounter occurred at the Cheetah Experience sanctuary in South Africa, where conservationists offer a home to non-releasable and threatened animals. The sanctuary is home to orphaned cheetahs, injured servals, non-breeding lions, and leopards that have been subjected to human conflict. All animals are maintained in accordance with the highest ethical behaviour standards and receive regular veterinary care.
Dolph Volker is a volunteer at the sanctuary and has spent years of his own free time helping out with the animals and as a support photographer. He developed an increased interest in wildlife conservation after the death of his pet dog. At the sanctuary, he documents the animals’ daily lives, helps with education on the importance of conserving wild cats in Africa, and works to raise awareness of threats to those species.The sanctuary is mostly funded through donations and volunteer time. Volunteers assist with animal care, educational outreach programs, and storytelling, all in preparation for rehabilitation where it is possible.Read more: 5 destinations that became popular unexpectedly
Eden the Cheetah and an accidental moment
About a decade ago, after a tiring day of physical work at the sanctuary, Dolph rested under a tree. Exhausted by the heat, he fell asleep on the ground. Nearby, a female cheetah named Eden noticed him.Curious, Eden slowly approached to inspect him. Finding no threat, she nudged him awake with soft head movements. Displaying gentle behaviours such as nuzzling, grooming, and staying nearby, she showed typical signs of comfort between animals that feel safe around each other in a protected environment.Aware of the special moment, Dolph quickly grabbed his camera and snapped pictures. The images were later shared widely, offering a rare glimpse of cheetah behaviour within a conservation environment.
Raising awareness through storytelling
The meeting became a turning point in Dolph’s conservation efforts. He began to focus more on educating the public about cheetah behaviour and their challenges. He also strives to correct myths surrounding big cats and shares the knowledge he has gained working at the refuge through his website and YouTube channel.Read more: Which temple in India has been carved out of a single rock? Cheetahs are still Africa’s most threatened big cat. Their numbers continue to fall due to habitat loss, shrinking prey populations, illegal wildlife trade, and human-wildlife conflict. Stories like Dolph’s exemplify these conservation challenges. Showing cheetahs at rest or acting trustingly helps inspire public engagement, support for sanctuaries, and deeper awareness of how fragile the species truly is. The brief respite shared by Eden and Dolph serves as a great example of what can be achieved when conservation is done right, emphasising respect, safety, and long-term dedication in wildlife protection.
