Cheetahs benefit from fundraising event held by Wild Wonders/Zoofari Foundation in Bonsall

Senior trainer and caretaker Carly Padilla scratches Victor, a seven-year-old cheetah, during a demonstration for supporters at a Wild Wonders/Zoofari Foundation benefit for the large felines in Bonsall on Dec. 28.

Victor the cheetah is a member of the ambassador program for the Zoofari Foundation. The program works to preserve cheetahs, provide educational programs, and raise money for other endangered species.

Jeri Walz pets an armadillo named Holly Jolly held by Wild Wonders keeper Mackenzie Smith at the cheetah benefit held by Wild Wonders/Zoofari Foundation on Dec. 28.

Wild Wonders in Bonsall partnered with the Zoofari Foundation to hold a South African Summer Sundowner benefit for their cheetah program on Dec. 28.

An American alligator was a sight many found amazing during the cheetah fundraiser and South African Summer Sundowner at Wild Wonders in Bonsall on Dec. 28.

A grey fox quietly observes visitors at the Wild Wonders exotic exhibits.

LaBeth Thompson cradles a stuffed cheetah toy as she serves herself food at