Pirouz (cheetah)

Pirouz was a male Asiatic cheetah cub born in captivity in Iran in May 2022. He was one of three cubs born at the Touran Wildlife Refuge, the offspring of cheetahs Firouzeh and Aas. Tragically, his two siblings died shortly after birth due to congenital issues.

Pirouz became a national symbol of hope for the critically endangered Asiatic cheetah population, which numbers fewer than 100 individuals in the wild. His birth was considered a significant achievement for Iran's conservation efforts. He was raised by veterinary staff and initially showed promising signs of development.

Despite initial successes, Pirouz suffered from kidney issues and underwent multiple treatments, including dialysis. He died on February 28, 2023, at the age of approximately 9 months due to kidney failure. His death was widely mourned in Iran, highlighting the public's concern for the Asiatic cheetah's survival. His name, meaning "victorious" in Persian, served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect this iconic species. While his life was short, Pirouz significantly raised awareness of the plight of the Asiatic cheetah within Iran and internationally.