• UGI USER
  • Jul 25, 2024
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GRASSLANDS IN KUTCH LIKELY TO HOST CHEETAHS FROM AFRICA

Why in the news?

  • The Banni grasslands in Gujarat are being prepared to host cheetahs from Africa as part of the next phase of Project Cheetah.
  • Although Gandhi Sagar sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is the preferred location, Banni is also being readied for the big cats
source:slideshare

Project Cheetah Updates

  • Of the 20 cheetahs introduced in Kuno, 13 survive along with 13 cubs, though Kuno’s capacity is limited.
  • India plans to import 10-12 cheetahs annually for five years, aiming to establish a sustainable breeding population.
About Cheetah Reintroduction Project?

Start Date and Purpose

  • Commenced on September 17, 2022.
  • Aims to restore the cheetah population in India, extinct since 1952.

Implementation and Collaboration

  • Involves translocation of cheetahs from South Africa and Namibia to Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.
  • Implemented by National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) with collaboration from Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, Wildlife Institute of India (WII), and cheetah experts from Namibia and South Africa.

Additional Facts

  • Cheetahs are “crepuscular” hunters, active during sunrise and sunset.
  • Females have a gestation period of 92-95 days, typically birthing 3-5 cubs per litter.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/madhya-pradesh-completes-cheetah-reintroduction-preparations-at-gandhi-sagar-sanctuary/