In May 2025, a mortality signal was detected for CF26, a well-known female cheetah within the reserve. When the monitoring team located her, the cause of death could not be determined. She left behind four cubs, estimated to be around a year old. At this age, cheetah cubs should already be hunting alongside their mother, so the decision was made not to intervene immediately.
However, in September 2025, three of the cubs – CM36, CF47, and CF48 – were found outside the reserve boundaries. One showed signs of a leg injury, and all three were in poorer condition than expected. To ensure their safety and recovery, the cubs were captured and transferred to a boma, where they could receive support, rest, and nutritional rehabilitation. Once stabilised, a plan was set in motion to move them to a specialised care facility capable of providing long-term support.
On 24 November, the cubs were relocated to the Ngonigoni Care Facility in Mpumalanga under the supervision of Dr Chris Smith. This centre is equipped to offer the structured care young cheetahs require. Since their arrival, the cubs have settled in well and continue to show steady improvement in both condition and behaviour.
Their journey is a powerful reminder of how fragile life can be for young predators – and how critical rapid response, collaboration, and specialised care are in giving them a second chance.