ZAA comprehensive census of South Africa's free-roaming cheetah population has revealed significantly lower numbers than previously believed. Earlier estimates suggested around 300 mature cheetahs, but the new census found a minimum of 83 mature adults across vast areas of the Northern Cape, North West, and Limpopo provinces. Including cubs and subadults, the verified total was 119 animals, with 17 mature adults recorded as having died during the study. The findings challenge previous assumptions that the population was stable, suggesting either a long-term low population or inaccurate prior estimates. The census involved extensive efforts including 389 camera traps, genetic sampling, and human verification of AI-generated image recognition results. While some animals may have been missed, the researchers believe the data provides the best available baseline for future monitoring.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual scientific findings without overt ideological slant. It reports on the methodology and challenges of the census without promoting specific political agendas. While the implications of the findings could influence environmental policy, the article itself remains neutral,
