Escaped Cheetahs Create Stir in Rural India

A female cheetah, Jwala, and her cubs ventured outside Kuno National Park, prompting a dramatic encounter with villagers. Forest officials urge calm and assure compensation for cattle losses, underscoring the delicate balance of wildlife conservation.

A female cheetah named Jwala, along with her four cubs, made an unexpected journey beyond the confines of Kuno National Park, Sunday evening and Monday morning, sparking tension in nearby rural communities. This marks the first time the cheetahs ventured outside the park since their release on February 21.

The cheetahs were observed near Veerpur tehsil, where Jwala attempted to hunt a calf. However, the presence of villagers equipped with sticks thwarted her efforts, prompting the forest department to step in and advise villagers to remain calm, allowing the cheetahs to pass. A widely circulated video shows the cheetah gripping the calf before villagers threw a stone, startling Jwala and causing her to flee.

Uttam Kumar Sharma, Director of the Cheetah Project, reassured locals through ANI, emphasizing that there is no need to fear the cheetahs. He urged them to observe rather than confront the animals, highlighting that compensation is provided for any cattle lost. Currently, 17 cheetahs, including 11 cubs, roam freely within the park, showcasing the complexity of wildlife conservation.

(With inputs from agencies.)