In a groundbreaking scientific breakthrough, two cheetah cubs have been born through in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer into a surrogate mother at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The births are the result of careful planning and innovative medical expertise through a partnership between the Columbus Zoo, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) in Front Royal, Va., and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas—three leading institutions with a commitment to conservation.
The male and female cubs were born on Feb. 19 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio to a surrogate mom, Isabel. Affectionately known as Izzy, the 3-year-old is a first-time mom.
