Understanding the Challenges of Cheetah Reintroduction in Kuno National Park

Kuno National Park: A Hub for cheetah reintroduction

Kuno National Park (KNP) in Madhya Pradesh has garnered national attention since India embarked on its ambitious mission to reintroduce cheetahs after a 70-year absence. Despite achieving several conservation milestones, recent events—such as the tragic death of a cheetah cub on December 7, 2025—have underscored the challenges of wildlife protection beyond designated areas.

The Recent Incident: Cheetah Cub Hit by Vehicle

On December 7, 2025, a cheetah cub succumbed to injuries after being struck by a vehicle along the Agra–Mumbai National Highway (NH46) in Gwalior district, Madhya Pradesh. The cub was one of two 20-month-old males born in India, both offspring of the South African female cheetah, Gamini. Although the young cheetahs were closely monitored by the park's tracking team and local forest officials, one tragically met its end due to a speeding vehicle. This incident raises alarms regarding highway safety, wildlife corridors, and the movement of animals outside protected areas.

Kuno National Park Location and Features

Kuno National Park is located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, spanning the Vindhyan hills and riverine landscapes. The park is characterized by:

• Dry deciduous forests
• Grasslands that provide ideal cheetah habitat
• Rich wildlife, including leopards, wolves, various deer species, hyenas, and a diverse range of birds

The unique terrain of KNP was specifically chosen for the Cheetah Reintroduction Project due to its ecological similarities with the African savannahs.

Kuno National Park's District and Cheetah Population

Kuno National Park is situated in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh. However, as evidenced by the recent accident, cheetahs—particularly young males—often venture beyond the park’s boundaries into neighboring districts like Gwalior and Shivpuri. This highlights the pressing need for enhanced monitoring and the establishment of wildlife-safe corridors.

The population of cheetahs in Kuno fluctuates due to various factors such as:

• New births
• Translocation efforts from Africa
• Occasional deaths
• Relocations prompted by health or territorial disputes

As of late 2025, there were approximately 26–27 cheetahs, including both adults and cubs, present within and around Kuno. Some cheetahs occasionally stray outside the park, complicating monitoring efforts.

Reasons Behind Cheetah Dispersal

Young male cheetahs typically explore new territories in search of:

• Food sources
• Mating opportunities
• Space away from dominant males

However, once they leave protected zones, they face several risks, including:

• Road accidents
• Human-wildlife conflict
• Limited prey availability
• Habitat fragmentation

The recent accident on NH46 highlights the urgent need to reinforce wildlife passages and raise community awareness regarding wildlife safety.

Kuno's Role in Project Cheetah

Kuno National Park was specifically selected for India’s cheetah reintroduction initiative due to its:

• Appropriate grassland ecosystems
• Extensive core area of over 700 square kilometers
• Efforts to rehabilitate villages to expand habitat
• Strategic location connecting multiple forest patches

The project has already made significant strides, including:

• Births of India-born cheetah cubs
• Successful adaptation of several African cheetahs
• Research advancements into cheetah behavior in India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Kuno National Park known for?
Answer: Kuno National Park is recognized for its significant role in India's cheetah reintroduction program, featuring diverse wildlife and suitable ecosystems for cheetahs.

Q2. Why did a cheetah cub die recently in Kuno?
Answer: A cheetah cub was killed after being struck by a vehicle on the Agra–Mumbai National Highway, highlighting the dangers faced by wildlife outside protected areas.

Q3. How many cheetahs are currently in Kuno National Park?
Answer: As of late 2025, there are approximately 26–27 cheetahs, including adults and cubs, within and around Kuno National Park.

Q4. What challenges do cheetahs face outside Kuno?
Answer: Cheetahs face risks such as road accidents, human-wildlife conflict, limited prey, and habitat fragmentation when they move outside Kuno National Park.

Q5. Why was Kuno selected for the cheetah reintroduction project?
Answer: Kuno was chosen due to its suitable grassland ecosystems, large core area, and strategic location that connects multiple forest patches, enhancing habitat opportunities.