INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
BHOPAL: Days of strategic planning, meticulous tracking and combined efforts of the various teams led to the capturing of Nirva, the female
South African cheetah, who went untraceable in the Kuno National Park and was located and rescued after 20-day disappearance
The account of this operation has been documented in a newsletter released by the authorities of Kuno National Park, shedding light on the
challenges faced during the Cheetah Project
On May 28, Nirva was released into the wild from the Soft Release Boma (SRB) after spending 60 days in Quarantine Boma (QB) and nearly 40
The female feline was set free into the wild of Kuno National Park
release, the VHF signal stopped working, causing concern among the conservationists
The challenge stemmed from the fact that satellite data is transmitted with a delay, making real-time monitoring difficult.To locate Nirva,
the interval for satellite data updates was reduced to two hours, striking a balance between effective tracking and conserving the collar's
This allowed for effective monitoring of Nirva's movements, albeit with occasional gaps in information.The most urgent challenge was the
Changing the collar was necessary, but the process was delicate
Cheetahs, especially those not used to human presence, are elusive and wary
Immobilizing them requires precise coordination and timing
Additionally, any sudden movements could potentially endanger Nirva's life
After careful consideration, the decision was made to wait until the intense summer heat subsided, reducing the risks associated with
The delicate process of darting and providing immediate medical assistance was further complicated by Nirva's tendency to flee upon sensing
humans.The search for Nirva involved multiple attempts, strategic planning, and coordination among various teams
The efforts included foot patrols, dog squads, elephants, drones, and extensive camera-trap installations
The breakthrough came on August 12, when a sudden satellite signal revealed Nirva's location after more than three weeks of uncertainty
The location was confirmed to be within the Dhoret range of Kuno National Park
meticulous tracking, utilizing drones, elephants, and dog squads, led to the successful darting and immobilization of Nirva
This marked the completion of the initial phase of the operation
The second phase involved locating her after immobilization, which was achieved through meticulous teamwork and coordination.This gripping
tale stands as a testament to the determination of the Cheetah project, the personnel's unyielding commitment, and their strategic approach
to overcoming these hurdles with scientific management.
