We could say 2011 was the year of the large cat! Chester Zoo had its first ever births of cheetahs and Sumatran tigers, as well as the arrival of two new female Asiatic Lions.The cheetahs were an added bonus for our visitors, especially as their mother Kinkytail was perfectly happy with them playing outside the viewing area. These little furballs were so popular that on occasion we had to ask visitors to move on in order for others to get a good view. It was also great to see our female Sumatran tiger, Kirana, with her cubs – she has proven to be a great mother following the loss of her first litter.