New study raises concerns about translocating African cheetahs, stating they are neither ecologically sustainable nor ethical.

“Environmental Justice Implications of African Cheetah Translocation to India”

• The Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS) study examines the ethical, ecological, and welfare challenges of the translocation of African cheetahs to India.

• The study, published in Frontiers in Conservation Science, reveals a mortality rate of 40%-50% in the first phase of the project, far below the expected survival rate of 85%.

• The cheetahs involved in the project have experienced high levels of stress, with over 90 chemical immobilisations and regular veterinary interventions.

• The study suggests that the project’s reliance on a continuous supply of cheetahs from southern Africa is neither ecologically sustainable nor ethical.

• The authors suggest a more justice-informed approach to conservation decisions, considering diverse knowledge systems and values, and the consent of people to bear the consequences of such initiatives.