On December 4th, International Cheetah Day, Kuno National Park will release a pair of cheetahs into the open forest. This first event follows months of preparation and aims to reintroduce cheetahs to India, which has been extinct for over eighty years.
R. Thirukkural K, the DFO of Kuno National Park, stated, “The cheetahs will be released into the open forest on December 4th for International Cheetah Day. All preparations are complete, and we’re excited to see them return to the wild.” While the specific cheetahs to be released aren’t named, the release is expected to begin with two animals, with more to follow.
Cheetahs, known for their speed, will roam freely in their natural habitat after months of monitoring in a large enclosure. “It’s a joyous moment for the cheetahs and visitors, as tourists can now see them up close in their natural environment,” Thirukkural K added.
The release will offer an exciting opportunity for tourists visiting Kuno National Park. Previously, visitors could only glimpse the cheetahs, but now, with the animals in the open jungle, tourists can observe them up close. This is expected to attract wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The park now houses 24 cheetahs—12 adults and 12 cubs—part of a government initiative to revive the cheetah population in India. The project began with the relocation of cheetahs from Africa, as part of the world’s first intercontinental translocation of big cats. Though the park’s reopening was delayed due to excessive rainfall, Kuno is now prepared to welcome tourists and wildlife back.
Over the past year, the cheetahs faced health challenges, including the loss of three to septicemia. These cheetahs had developed injuries from the unexpected growth of winter coats during India’s warmer seasons, leading to infections. However, all 25 cheetahs—13 adults and 12 cubs—are reported to be in good health, having received vaccinations and other preventive treatments.
Despite facing health challenges, including the loss of three animals to septicemia, all 25 cheetahs are reported to be in good health, with the necessary vaccinations and treatments. “Despite the challenges, we are confident the cheetahs are ready for their return to the wild,” said a park official.
The phased release will allow cubs and their mothers to adjust gradually to their new surroundings. As Kuno National Park takes this important step in reintroducing cheetahs to India, the project offers hope for the species’ long-term survival in the wild.
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