Ritika
Cheetahs of Kuno (file photo)
– Photo: Social Media
Expansion
Eight cheetahs were brought from Namibia to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh in September. Now on February 18, 12 more cheetahs are expected to reach Kuno from South Africa. Scientists from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) have mobilized to provide them a safe environment, avoid possible conflicts and threats.
To maintain their hunting habit during the quarantine, vegetarian animals will be released in their enclosure. Due to this, their physical energy will also be maintained and there will be less scope for any kind of harm to them.
IVRI expert Dr. Abhijit Pavade had reached Kuno National Park three days back to see the arrangements related to the quarantine of cheetahs. Told that a boma (den) would be made to quarantine the cheetahs, as they would be tired while traveling long distances. If they are released as soon as they arrive, there will be a risk of them getting infected by coming in contact with the animals already living in the park.
On the other hand, if there is any infection in them, then there will be a possibility of its spread among the animals here. Animals like leopard, lion, tiger, wolf, jackal, fox etc. will be kept in electric enclosure to prevent them from coming in contact with cheetahs. Light current will be run in the fencing of the enclosure that has been made, so that if the animals try to enter, they too will not be harmed. Leaving five to six feet space from the boundary of the enclosure, iron wire will be placed all around. Arrangements will also be made to ensure that no animal enters by jumping over the fence.
