Cheetah's comeback shines at Kuno national park on Intl Cheetah Day

Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is progressing in its cheetah conservation program. With 12 thriving cubs adapting well to the environment, the park is becoming a symbol of hope for the species' revival. Among these cubs, the first female cub born in Kuno is 20 months old, and seven of Asha and Jwala, born in January 2024, will turn one next month. These young cheetahs are expected to mature within 18 to 24 months.

Field Director Uttam Sharma emphasized, “The Indian-born cubs adapt better to the climate and environment than African cheetahs. They show awareness of seasonal changes, which is promising for their survival.”

Significant progress in 2024

In 2024, cheetah conservation improved compared to 2023. Last year, Kuno lost seven adult cheetahs and three cubs. In contrast, 2024 saw the birth of 11 cubs, with only two adult cheetahs and four cubs dying. The park now has 24 cheetahs—12 adults and 12 cubs.

Cheetah reintroduction into the open forest will resume shortly, starting with male cheetahs Agni and Vayu. This aligns with the Cheetah Action Plan, which estimates Kuno can sustainably support 20 cheetahs. With the current population exceeding this limit, preparations for a second settlement in Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary, Mandsaur, are underway.

“The Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary is ready to host cheetahs,” noted Shubhranjan Sen, PCCF Wildlife. “We’ve identified a natural corridor connecting Kuno to Gandhi Sagar via Rajasthan, ensuring long-term sustainability.”

As cheetahs are released into the open forest, monitoring their movement is vital, especially since Kuno borders Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Cross-border collaboration is essential, and a joint cheetah corridor monitoring committee has been established with Rajasthan.

Sen added, “Conditions are improving for cheetahs in Kuno, but as cubs separate from their mothers, there’s a risk of territorial disputes with adult cheetahs. Proactive monitoring will be crucial to mitigate conflicts.”

International cheetah day

The progress at Kuno coincides with International Cheetah Day on December 4, dedicated to raising awareness about cheetah challenges and promoting global conservation efforts. As one of the fastest land animals, cheetahs are listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

Conservationists initiated international Cheetah Day to spotlight threats to cheetahs and encourage global action. The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), founded by Dr. Laurie Marker in Namibia in 1990, has been pivotal in this effort. The day serves as a platform for educational programs, fundraising campaigns, and conservation activities that emphasize habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and the ecological role of cheetahs in maintaining balanced ecosystems.

“Cheetahs are apex predators integral to their environments. Protecting them safeguards broader biodiversity,” said Sen.

Kuno National Park demonstrates the success of India’s cheetah reintroduction program, focusing on enhancing habitat management and fostering cross-state collaboration. International Cheetah Day reminds us of the shared responsibility to protect these creatures and ensure they thrive in their habitats. With continued dedication, Kuno is paving the way for a sustainable future for cheetahs, inspiring global conservation efforts.

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