4 Cheetah Cubs Named At San Diego Zoo Safari Park

ESCONDIDO, CA — San Diego Zoo Safari Park officials have announced the names of four cheetah cubs, the first cubs born at the park since 2020.

A social media contest determined the name of one of the male cubs. Voters chose the name Nyasi, which means grass or plains, for the cub described as vocal and independent.

Wildlife care staff named the other three male cubs. The largest of the brothers was named Owadgi, meaning brother. The smallest of the litter was named after his grandmother, Ohani, meaning moon. The fourth and most protective cub was named Nkala, a powerful character in Zambian folklore.

The cubs are being raised behind the scenes at the Escondido park's Carnivore Conservation Center under the care of their mother, Kelechi.

Visitors may have an opportunity to see the cubs and their mother during special Ultimate Safari tours, officials said.