Baran, Rajasthan: A female cheetah that had strayed from Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh was killed after being hit by a speeding car near Simaria Mor, in the Baran district of Rajasthan. The incident occurred early Sunday morning around 5–6 AM when the cheetah and another young cheetah crossed the Agra-Mumbai National Highway (NH-27) through the forest area of Ghatigaon.
According to officials, the vehicle struck the female cheetah with such force that she died on the spot near the highway. Locals immediately informed the police and forest department, prompting swift action. Within 90 minutes, the Baran forest department teams, including units from Shahabad, Kelwara, Kishanganj, and Anta ranges, managed to track and apprehend the driver. The driver was handed over to the Kuno National Park team for further action.
Identity of the Cheetah and Family Background
The deceased cheetah, identified as KG-3, was born in Kuno National Park and was the daughter of Gamini, another resident female cheetah of the park. Kuno officials confirmed that KG-3’s death is a significant loss as she was part of ongoing efforts to monitor and expand the cheetah population outside the park. The cheetah’s body has been transported back to Kuno National Park for proper examination and documentation.
Cheetahs on the Move: Ongoing Monitoring
The female cheetah had not been alone. Another young cheetah from Kuno was accompanying her, and forest officials are actively tracking its movements in the Simaria Mor area. Reports suggest that the two cheetahs had hunted a cow in the same area the previous evening.
Meanwhile, a male cheetah that had arrived in Baran’s Ramgarh Crater forest area 11 days ago has successfully adapted to its new territory, recording its fourth kill since settling there.
Forest Department Response
Baran Forest Department officials, led by DCF Vivekananda Manikrao Bade, coordinated a quick response to the incident. NH-27 tolls and strategic checkpoints were used to track the fleeing vehicle, demonstrating the department’s commitment to wildlife protection and rapid enforcement. The case has also highlighted the challenges faced by wildlife as cheetahs expand beyond the boundaries of their protected habitats.
Conservation Efforts in Kuno National Park
Kuno National Park has been actively monitoring its cheetahs through satellite collars, tracking their movements as they explore areas outside the park. The recent loss underscores the risks faced by free-roaming cheetahs, while forest officials continue to follow and protect the remaining young cheetah.
