amylynnterry: What do you do now and do you have any suggestions for someone starting to get into the conservation field?
tigger2545: What is the best way to get into this line of work?
Peter Gros: Presently I'm working with Mutual of Omaha and Animal Planet on their new hour-long specials, which we're so happy to have back on the air every week. I also spend time touring the United States speaking to students and seniors, and anybody else who will listen, about positive conservation projects. Projects that are successful, like the condor, the peregrine falcon, the bald eagle, the black bear and the alligator, just to name a few species that are no longer on the endangered species list.

You might like to contact your local zoo or science center and find out about their volunteer programs. There's a college in southern California called Moorpark that teaches people animal husbandry and care and prepares them for work in zoos as well as pursuing study in biology at the university level. Good luck — it's a very rewarding career.

nkborgardt: Are there any theories about why cheetah's prefer wild game to livestock?
Peter Gros: Thousands of years before livestock was available, the cheetah's wild kill instincts were firmly set in place. The first solid food that cubs will eat during the 18 months that they stay with their mother is usually antelope, and the first prey they are taught to hunt is antelope. So I believe they become conditioned that wild antelope are their main food source. Also, the dogs work very effectively, since most cats will choose flight over fight when they hear the deep barking noise.

amylynnterry: Have you heard of wild big cats having problems with FIV, FIP, Parvo, etc. due to domestic animals?
Peter Gros: I have not heard of cheetahs being affected, although cheetahs can be vaccinated if they have to be relocated, and cheetahs are vulnerable to some diseases that dogs carry. All cheetahs in zoos in the United States are vaccinated for the possibility of those diseases as well. At least in Namibia, currently the cheetah population is holding its own, so I'm quite optimistic that with a greater understanding of the people who share the habitat with this magnificent animal it will be here for future generations to enjoy.

Peter Gros: Thank you so much for your questions. I look forward to chatting with you in the future!