The process of releasing two cheetahs is well on track
This is not just another release, but is rather a success story of how captive-born cheetahs are able to survive in the wild.
HOEDSPRUIT – The process of releasing two cheetahs at the Air Force Base Makhado (formerly known as Air Force Base Louis Trichardt) in November 2015 is well on track.
This is not just another release, but is rather a success story of how captive-born cheetahs are able to survive in the wild. During the past couple of days these majestic animals were fitted with collars and the preparations of the crates for the trip. On Tuesday the two male cheetahs were relocated from Hoedspruit Endagered Species Centre (HESC) to Makhado Air Force Base in Louis Trichardt, where they will be kept in a pre-erected boma and will be released on November 20.
With the air-force base being situated in a remote wilderness area with animals roaming free, a great risk was posed to both man and animal. As wild animals become habituated to noises from aircraft, they are no longer frightened of the airstrip at the sound of an oncoming plane. Not only is their welfare threatened in the process, but so too are the humans’ who are on-board the incoming aircraft.
Following numerous unsuccessful attempts to remove animals from the airstrip, it was decided that the best way to do this was nature’s way – by introducing a predator.
Being used to human contact makes for a more manageable dynamics, taking into account the number of people landing and taking off from the airfield every day.
A cheetah is the best possible predator, as lions are very big and pose a greater threat to people, while leopards are skittish and would probably move away from the area in search of solitude.
The reason why two male cheetahs were chosen, is because of females being solitary animals. Should they make a kill around the airstrip, they will only consume half a carcass and subsequently lure vultures to the area, which can be an even bigger threat to incoming aircraft.
Male cheetahs form coalitions of two to five animals. Taking two which have already bonded is the ideal solution. These animals will not move too far away from humans or threaten their safety. They will hunt efficiently ensuring management of animal species on the runway, and will quickly clear a carcass without attracting vultures.
A cheetah release involves a number of steps, administratively and operationally, such as obtaining the necessary permits, fitting tracking devices, the actual move and relocation, and ultimately the release onto the air-force base.
