TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center reports that its last cheetah will be leaving the zoo this month on a mission to become a parent.
The zoo made the announcement on social media on May 5, stating that cheetah Roosevelt will be leaving soon as he heads to a different facility. Roosevelt, also known as Roo, is leaving as he is in the lineup for becoming a father of his own cubs to help the species bounce back from its endangered status.
“These moves are being made from recommendations from professionals involved with Cheetah SSP (Species Survival Plan), which ensures the entire species population is benefiting from placements, breeding matches, and births.”
Topeka Zoo social media statement excerpt
The Topeka Zoo said Roosevelt will be leaving on May 15. The zoo said people can expect to see new cheetahs at the zoo in the near future.
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Roosevelt and another cheetah, Leopold, arrived at the Topeka Zoo in June last year. Zoo staff had to put Leopold down in September 2025 after he suffered severe spinal damage during an incident in his enclosure.
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