Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Cheetahs photographed closer than you'll ever see in pictures showing the pride of nature


The fastest animals on land aren't often seen relaxing this languidly, but one photographer got up close and personal with them

 Media Drum World

Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Cat nip: These cheetahs are totally at ease with people coming into close contact with them
Not many of us will ever get close to a cheetah - but thanks to these stunning images, we don't have to.
The incredible shots show the handsome big cats as close as it's possible to get, and they're quite special.
Showing the animals totally at ease with people coming into close contact with them, the cheetahs are seen happily striking a pose for pictures.
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Hill start: The cats are the fasted land animals in the world but they've slowed down here
They even allowed one very excited photographer to sit just behind them while his wife captured the special moment as the sun went down.
German-born Carlos Santero and his wife spent two days at a private reserve in Toledo in Spain, home to these exquisite animals.
“You must have respect for the cheetahs, they are friendly, but not harmless,” said the 49-year-old snapper.
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Stretch out: Carlos Santero spent two days at a private reserve in Toledo, Spain
“There was a moment where one of the cheetahs caught my hand in his mouth, he continued.
“I knew if the cheetah bit my hand I would be damaged.”
Cheetahs are the fastest land animal in world and can reach speeds of up to 70mph, accelerating from 0-60mph in just three seconds.
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Spanish Pride: The cheetahs were snapped in a nature reserve
When travelling at such speeds cheetahs use their strong tails to steer in the same way a boat uses a rudder. They are also the only big cat capable of turning mid-air during a sprint
This friendly pair live in a reserve owned by a local vet.
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Natural beauty: Carlos said that they were friendly, but he was aware that they can be dangerous
“I had heard there were cheetahs living in a private reserve in Spain,” said Carlos.
“So I thought it was a good idea to photograph them in my own style."
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Cat man: Carlos with a relaxed cheetah as his wife captures the moment
“I try to catch photos that reflect my emotions in the moment of the shot.
“In this case I show the beauty of these wonderful animals," he continued.
Media Drum World Big cats in Toledo, Spain
Animal Pride: The cheetahs are happy striking a pose for Carlos' pictures
“I really love the elegance, the awesome speed and their eyes," he added.
“When people see these pictures they are mostly amazed and tell me that they have never seen pictures of cheetahs quite like these.”

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