Columbus Zoo euthanizes beloved cheetah after kidney issues

Kibibi, a foundational cheetah, played a vital role in advancing global understanding of the species.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:49pm

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A bold, abstract painting in earthy tones depicting intricate biological structures and forces, representing the complex scientific advancements enabled by Kibibi's participation in cheetah conservation efforts.Kibibi's pioneering contributions to cheetah reproductive research paved the way for groundbreaking conservation breakthroughs.Columbus Today

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has announced the passing of Kibibi, a 12-year-old cheetah, who was humanely euthanized following a battle with kidney failure. Kibibi, known as "Bibi," arrived at the zoo in 2013 and was among the first residents of the Heart of Africa region. She played a crucial role in advancing the global understanding of cheetahs by participating in voluntary medical procedures, including hormone treatments and egg collection, which culminated in the world's first cheetahs conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and born to a surrogate in 2020.

Why it matters

Kibibi's contributions to cheetah conservation and reproductive research were groundbreaking, helping pave the way for critical advancements in the field. Her passing is a significant loss for the Columbus Zoo and the broader wildlife conservation community.

The details

According to zoo officials, Bibi was a beloved fixture of the "cheetah run" program and her health had declined despite around-the-clock IV treatments. The zoo's Animal Care and Conservation Medicine teams made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her.

  • Kibibi arrived at the Columbus Zoo in 2013.
  • In 2020, Kibibi was the biological mother of the first cheetahs ever conceived through IVF and born to a surrogate.
  • Kibibi was euthanized on April 19, 2026, at the age of 12.

The players

Kibibi

A 12-year-old cheetah at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium who played a vital role in advancing the global understanding of cheetahs through her participation in medical procedures.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The zoo where Kibibi lived and where she made significant contributions to cheetah conservation and reproductive research.

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The takeaway

Kibibi's legacy will live on through the groundbreaking reproductive achievements she helped facilitate, which have advanced the global understanding and conservation of cheetahs. Her passing is a significant loss for the Columbus Zoo and the broader wildlife conservation community.