It’s what happened to Dolph Volker, a wildlife photographer and animal enthusiast, during one of his volunteering stints at Cheetah Experience, a sanctuary for endangered species in South Africa. Dolph’s journey with animals began much like anyone’s affection for their pets.

Oct 11, 2024 · It sounds like a scene straight out of a nature documentary—a photographer waking up in the middle of the African savanna to find a wild cheetah resting peacefully beside him. But for Dolph Volker, a dedicated wildlife photographer and conservationist, this incredible moment was as real as it gets.

Jul 2, 2018 · He’s made a lot of friends at the sanctuary, including a cheetah named Eden. Volker was a little afraid to be so close to the cheetahs at first. He got to know Eden when she approached him while he was napping under a tree.

Jan 5, 2025 · When Dolph woke up, he was startled but quickly realized he was experiencing something truly unique: a cheetah, often perceived as untouchable and wild, showing trust and affection. As a wildlife photographer, Dolph instinctively reached for his camera to document the surreal encounter.

That’s when a cheetah named Eden spotted Dolph. She walked up to him, sniffed him, and decided to cuddle with the harmless human. To say Dolph was surprised to find Eden when he woke up would be an understatement.

Sep 23, 2024 · The curious cheetah, named Eden, had wandered over to investigate and, feeling safe, decided to take a nap of her own right next to him. When Volker stirred awake, he was stunned but touched by this unusual display of trust from …

Dec 19, 2024 · What began as a simple respite from the scorching sun turned into an unforgettable interaction with a cheetah named Eden. As Volker sought shade beneath a tree, he drifted off into a peaceful slumber. Little did he know that his impromptu nap would attract an unexpected companion.

Jul 4, 2024 · In South Africa, a female cheetah spotted a dozing photographer and decided to curl up next to him for a nap. This heartwarming encounter was a testament to the bond between humans and wildlife, particularly when both share mutual respect and understanding.

While volunteering at the “Cheetah Experience,” a sanctuary dedicated to protecting these endangered animals, Dolph encountered one of the rarest interactions a human could have with a wild predator: he awoke from a nap under a tree to find a …

Dec 31, 2024 · But for wildlife photographer Dolph Volker, the wild delivered a surprise that even he couldn’t have imagined: waking up from a nap to find a cheetah snuggled up beside him. This extraordinary encounter offers a glimpse into the unique bonds humans can form with animals when mutual respect prevails.