But endangered cats used to have a much larger range. Historically, cheetahs have roamed the Middle East and central India, as well as much of sub-Saharan Africa. Habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans have greatly reduced their populations.
The animals selected for the 11-hour hike were selected “based on an assessment of health, wild character, hunting skills and the ability to contribute genetics that will result in a strong founder population,” the organization said in a statement.
It took a multi-stage journey to bring the cats from Namibia, located on the southwest coast of Africa, to central India. On Friday, the cheetahs departed the CCF center for Oshii Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, Namibia. They then flew on a private jet to Jaipur, India. Finally, on Saturday, the cats were taken to Kuno National Park and released to a new home.
“As a conservationist, I am delighted, and as the leader of CCF, I am extremely proud of the work our team is doing to reintroduce CCF,” Lori Marker, founder and CEO of CCF, said in a press release. “Without the research and dedication to cheetah conservation, this project could not have taken place.”
Jhala Yadvendradev, Dean of the Wildlife Institute of India and Chief Scientist at India’s Cheetah Project, said the project will benefit India’s entire ecosystem, not just cheetahs.
“The return of the apex predator restores the historical evolutionary balance, leading to cascading effects, leading to better management and restoration of wildlife habitat for the benefit of all species, and improves the livelihoods of poor forest communities,” Yadvendradev said in a press release. .
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