Four Cheetah Cubs Die at Kuno National Park
Why in News
Four cheetah cubs, born in the open forest as part of India's Project Cheetah, have died at Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, reportedly due to a suspected leopard attack. This marks the largest single instance of cheetah casualties at the park.
Background
The deaths highlight the inherent challenges and risks in wildlife reintroduction programs, particularly concerning predator-prey dynamics and habitat management. It underscores the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies for Project Cheetah's long-term success.
Key Figure
• 2022 — Project Cheetah launch year • 1952 — Cheetah declared extinct in India • 2018 — Kuno National Park declared
Key Facts
- 1Kuno National Park: Located in Madhya Pradesh (Sheopur and Morena districts) | declared a National Park in 2018 | known for its diverse wildlife.
- 2Project Cheetah: Launched in 2022 | aims to reintroduce cheetahs to India after their extinction in 1952 | first batch from Namibia.
- 3Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus): IUCN Red List status - Vulnerable | fastest land animal | historically found across Africa and Asia.
- 4Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Provides for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants | establishes National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries | Schedule I species receive highest protection.
- 5National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA): Statutory body (est. 2006 under WPA 1972) | mandate: tiger conservation, also oversees Project Cheetah.
- 6Madhya Pradesh: Known as the 'Tiger State' of India | hosts several National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Panna.
Exam Angle
The challenges faced by Project Cheetah at Kuno National Park underscore the complexities of wildlife reintroduction, necessitating robust ecological assessments, community engagement, and adaptive management strategies for long-term conservation success.
PYQ Connection
PRELIMS_FACT: Kuno NP location, Project Cheetah year; MAINS_ANALYTICAL: Wildlife reintroduction challenges, human-wildlife conflict
Map Points