Our Successful Cheetah Relocation

When it comes to wildlife conservation, the proverb “many hands make light work” holds true. The recent cheetah relocation between two different reserves within South Africa stands as a testament to this. This feat was not achieved by a single entity but was the fruit of an amalgamation of efforts by various organisations.

These female cheetahs made their way from Nkomazi Private Game Reserve in Mpumalanga to the pristine landscapes of Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. This monumental move was a part of the EWT’s Cheetah Range Expansion Project. This initiative, pioneered by the Endangered Wildlife Trust, seeks to manage southern Africa’s dwindling cheetah metapopulation. The approach involves the implementation of source-sink dynamics and ensuring gene flow, made possible through strategic translocations.

This relocation served as an important role in the breeding population of Nambiti as currently we only have one female who has passed breeding age.

The excitement was palpable at Nambiti when the cheetahs were introduced. After a period of acclimatisation within a specially designed boma, the gates were finally opened. The captivating sight of these cheetah gracefully stepping out into their new home was a sight to behold. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and that of Nambiti’s cheetah population.

The success of this relocation reminds us of the power of collaboration. When various stakeholders come together with a common vision, remarkable feats can be achieved. It also underscores the importance of proactive conservation efforts to ensure that the majestic creatures of our planet, like the cheetah, have a chance to thrive and play their role in the delicate balance of nature.

As visitors take their game drives across the vast expanse of Nambiti Game Reserve, the story of these cheetahs will undoubtedly be one for the books.

Discover the beauty of Nambiti and its rich wildlife on your next visit. Experience the best of South African nature, and maybe, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the newly released female cheetahs, exploring their new kingdom.