In November, our team successfully relocated two young male cheetahs from Pilanesberg National Park to Shambala Private Game Reserve, a move designed to strengthen the genetics and long-term health of Pilanesberg’s thriving cheetah population.

The EWT has a proud, long-standing partnership with Pilanesberg, collaborating across numerous conservation projects. Cheetahs have long captured the hearts of visitors here, especially the beloved Rain, introduced in 2014. Though Rain passed away in 2023 at the remarkable age of 12, her daughters, Tale and Mapula, continue her legacy. Tale alone has raised nine cubs to independence, including these two young males who have now begun their own journey.

Before their relocation, the brothers spent months honing their hunting skills and embracing their natural independence, a vital step before translocation. Once they were ready, it was time for the delicate task of capture and relocation. Easier said than done! Between high spring heat, unpredictable sightings, and tight veterinary and logistics schedules, patience was essential.

When the perfect conditions finally arrived – cool, overcast weather and a sighting near Pilanesberg Centre – the teams sprang into action. But, as cheetahs do best, the brothers disappeared just as quickly. A drone was deployed to aid in the search, sweeping the surrounding area for any sign of the brothers. Just when spirits began to dip, a short game drive revealed the pair resting calmly in an open, recently burned area, ideal for a safe and efficient operation.

Within minutes, both males were darted, examined, and securely loaded into transport crates with minimal stress. After a smooth journey, they arrived safely at Shambala, where they are now settling into a temporary holding boma. They will remain in the boma for 3-4 weeks allowing them to adjust to the sounds and smells of their new home, before the gates are opened and they are released to join a female already on the reserve.

This move marks a special reunion of sorts for Shambala, which previously hosted males from Rain’s first litter for nearly six years. Now, her grandsons will continue her bloodline in the same reserve, full-circle moment in her legacy. For Pilanesberg, attention now turns to welcoming a new coalition of males to ensure continued breeding with Tale and Mapula. Together, these efforts reflect a shared vision: healthy, growing cheetah populations that will inspire and delight generations to come.