Orphaned cheetahs getting another chance at freedom
In early November 2023, our reserve team set out to monitor a resident cheetah female and her two cubs. Unfortunately, upon reaching her location, they made a heartbreaking discovery: the cheetah had been killed by a leopard during the night. Fearing for the cubs’ safety, the team searched the area and was relieved to find both were still alive. At just seven months old, the cubs lack the experience needed to survive on their own and would likely struggle without their mother. To ensure their safety, a veterinarian was called in to dart the cubs and relocate them to the predator boma, where they can receive the care, they need during this difficult time.
After extensive discussions with experts, we have decided not to send the orphaned cheetah cubs to a captive rehabilitation program. Instead, they will remain at Mabula, where they will be bonded with a surrogate mother, with the hope that she will teach them essential survival skills. However, just before the planned release, we faced a significant setback—the surrogate mother sadly passed away. This required the entire process to start anew, but our reserve team remains hopeful and more determined than ever to succeed in this initiative. Fortunately, the cubs have now positively bonded with a new surrogate mother, and the project is back on track.
We anticipate that in just a few weeks, we will witness the incredible sight of these cheetahs roaming the reserve. Rest assured, the cubs and the new female will be closely monitored, and their progress will be meticulously recorded. This unique endeavour is a pioneering effort for our reserve, and we are proud of our team’s dedication to this important project.
