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India Targets New Cheetah Arrivals by December as Reintroduction Broadens to Fresh Sites

Officials say stronger survival rates are enabling a planned influx to support a growing metapopulation.

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Once the Cheetah Corridor is developed between the states, the cheetah prey base would increase
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Overview

  • Talks with Kenya, Namibia and Botswana are underway, with officials expecting at least one 8–10 animal batch from Namibia or Botswana by December.
  • India counts 27 cheetahs nationwide, with roughly 15 currently free‑ranging in Kuno National Park.
  • Banni grasslands in Gujarat and Nauradehi in Madhya Pradesh have been identified for upcoming releases, with Kenyan animals expected to go to Banni.
  • Project data show cub survival at about 61% versus a global average near 40%, and adult survival in Kuno rising to 85.7% in year two.
  • Management plans include radio‑collar tracking for all adults, ongoing releases at Gandhi Sagar, and acquiring 10–12 cheetahs annually to bolster genetic diversity.