In a tragic turn of events, a female cheetah that was translocated from South Africa to the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary has died. This marks the third fatality in just 42 days since the translocation project began.
The translocation of the cheetah was part of a larger effort to reintroduce the species to the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The sanctuary has been designated as a potential site for the reintroduction of cheetahs, which were declared extinct in India in 1952.
According to reports, the cheetah had been brought to the sanctuary on April 9, 2023. However, just a few weeks later, on May 3, 2023, the animal was found dead by forest officials. The cause of death is currently unknown, but it is believed that the cheetah may have succumbed to the stress of being translocated to a new environment.
This latest fatality has raised concerns about the safety and viability of the translocation project. Two other cheetahs that were translocated to the sanctuary have also died in recent weeks. One died just a few days after arrival, while another died after being attacked by a pack of wild dogs.
Critics of the project have argued that the translocation of cheetahs to a new environment is a risky and dangerous undertaking. They point to the fact that cheetahs are highly specialized animals that require specific conditions in order to thrive. The Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, they argue, may not be suitable for cheetahs and could be putting the animals at risk.
However, proponents of the project maintain that the translocation of cheetahs is necessary in order to restore the species to its historic range in India. They argue that careful planning and management can ensure the success of the project and that the loss of a few animals is an unfortunate but inevitable part of the process.
Investigation continues
As the investigation into the death of the female cheetah continues, the future of the translocation project remains uncertain. Many are calling for a reassessment of the project and a thorough evaluation of the risks and benefits involved. One thing is clear, however – the loss of these magnificent animals is a tragedy for all who care about the conservation of wildlife.
