India is expanding its cheetah reintroduction program. Twelve animals will be flown from Africa to India in February, according to a joint statement of intent from the Indian and South African governments on Thursday. The cats will then join eight other cheetahs introduced to India from Namibia last September.
In India, the animals were believed to have been extinct for 70 years. There have been plans for decades to reintroduce the animals to India. Because cheetahs cannot be bred in captivity, the animals are now embarking on a journey of about 8,500 kilometers. After the first cheetah transport, twelve more animals will be moved from Africa to India in the next eight to ten years.
The cheetah’s move last year was the first to move the animals from one continent to another, India said. It is hoped for a great success for the protection of species worldwide and also for India. The first eight have settled into their new home in a national park in the state of Madhya Pradesh and have also become accustomed to the local prey, the Indian forestry authority recently announced. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
