International Cheetah Day

December 4, Thursday

International Cheetah Day is celebrated annually on December 4. Its goal is to draw attention to the critical situation of cheetahs, whose numbers are rapidly declining. The holiday was initiated by wild cat conservation organizations to emphasize the need to protect this unique species — the fastest land animal on the planet.

Why cheetahs need special protection
Today, cheetahs are under serious threat of extinction. The main causes are related to human activity and environmental changes. The holiday aims to remind the world that:
• the area of cheetahs’ natural habitats is rapidly decreasing;
• poaching and illegal trade in cubs remain a problem;
• conflicts between farmers and predators lead to the killing of adult individuals;
• reduced genetic diversity makes the species particularly vulnerable;
• climate change affects prey and survival conditions for cheetahs.

Main goals of International Cheetah Day
This day aims to:
• raise global awareness of the species’ conservation issues;
• support scientific projects studying cheetah behavior and ecology;
• draw attention to habitat restoration programs;
• promote educational initiatives for schoolchildren and youth;
• develop international cooperation in wildlife protection.

How the celebration takes place
Worldwide, educational and conservation activities are held:
• lectures and online seminars on cheetah biology;
• charity campaigns supporting wildlife reserves;
• special programs in zoos and nature centers;
• fundraising actions for research and conservation projects;
• educational workshops for children;
• media publications aimed at popularizing knowledge about the species.

Why December 4
The date was chosen in honor of Annette Rozendorf, a researcher and founder of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, who devoted her life to protecting cheetahs. Thanks to her work, International Cheetah Day has gained worldwide recognition.

Modern significance
Today, the holiday plays an important role in uniting scientific organizations, eco-activists, government structures, and ordinary people around a common goal — conserving cheetahs in the wild. It reminds that every inhabitant of the planet can contribute: from supporting funds to adopting a conscious attitude toward nature.

International Cheetah Day – days left: 1. Create Countdown to Event

International Cheetah Day in other years

2021 December 4, Saturday
2022 December 4, Sunday
2023 December 4, Monday
2024 December 4, Wednesday
2026 December 4, Friday

International Cheetah Day in other countries