Rearing cheetahs: Kuno project requires careful handling

Dedicated follow-up is needed to ensure the Kuno ecosystem finds a new balance where these beauties can thrive

The translocation of eight Namibian cheetahs to the Kuno National Park has created its share of controversy. While it is being hailed as a great initiative to reintroduce an iconic big cat, it will require years of careful follow-through to ensure the cat thrives and this doesn’t turn out to be just a publicity exercise. There are concerns about genetic diversity, and there’s need to take measures to protect them from poachers and other animals, and thought must also be given to managing the inevitable disturbances in the ecosystem, which result from the advent of a new apex predator. There