Photograph: Phillip Wenzel. Use only by agreement.

From the collection

Future Hunters

Standing alert in the tall grass, Future Hunters captures two young cheetahs observing their surroundings with curiosity and instinct. Their sleek, spotted coats contrast beautifully with the lush landscape, hinting at the speed and agility they will soon master. A glimpse into the making of Africa’s fastest predators.

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Where it was taken

Welgevonden Game Reserve, South Africa

Where that is

Borders: Natural Earth

More from the collection

A curious look: The young lion cub studies its surroundings attentively.

Among elands: Two elands stand in the pasture. Elands are among the largest antelopes in Africa; the related giant eland is considered the largest antelope species in the world. With every step, their cloven hooves can make an audible clicking sound.

Grace of the Plains

A young lioness drinking at the water, her reflection below

Silent Reflection

A mischievous look: One of the cheetah brothers peers out from between the tall stalks. With his mouth slightly open, he looks almost as if he is up to some mischief.

Joy in the Wild

A box seat in the treetop: High up among the branches, the leopard lies surveying its surroundings.

Four eyes see more than two: Two young cheetahs sit close together and keep a watchful lookout over the tall grass.

Relaxing together: Two adult male lions rest side by side in the tall grass.

Even giants start small: Close to its mother, the elephant calf drinks milk and grows, sip by sip, into one of the giants of the savanna.