A cheetah named Nkanyiso, who knew only captivity for the longest time, has, after a long and challenging journey, finally returned to the wild as a mother of four precious cubs!
Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa (09 May 2025) — After almost a year, Nkanyiso, a once-captive cheetah, and her four cubs were released back into the wild at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve!
This marks a significant milestone in the cheetahs’ rewilding journey and a broader effort to protect vulnerable species in Southern Africa.
Nkanyiso first arrived at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve in April 2023 as part of a collaborative rewilding programme with Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, The Metapopulation Initiative and Nyosi Wildlife Reserve.
After spending her early years in captivity, she underwent a carefully monitored rewilding process, learning to hunt, roam freely and thrive without human assistance.
However, in April 2024, Nkanyiso suffered a severely broken leg, a potentially life-threatening injury for any cheetah, let alone one still adapting to the wild. With the help of dedicated field guides and veterinary support, Nkanyiso was rescued and treated, and it was discovered she had recently given birth.
It wasn’t long before field guides located her four cubs within the 2,500-hectare (6,200-acre) reserve and safely recovered and reunited them with their mother during her recovery.
After a successful surgery and months of care, Nkanyiso has made a full recovery and was cleared for release by veterinary experts.
This marks a powerful new chapter as Nkanyiso returns to the wild, this time with her four cubs. Her cubs were also named recently, the two males are named Zuko (meaning glory) and Khukhula (meaning storm) and the females are named Amani (meaning peace) and Amira (meaning princess).
“Nkanyiso’s story is one of hope, resilience and the incredible possibilities of rewilding,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society.
“Her release, alongside her cubs, is a milestone for cheetah conservation and a victory for all who fight to protect endangered species. Global Humane Society remains committed to ensuring that wild animals everywhere are treated with the care and respect they deserve.”
Nkanyiso and her cubs will continue to be monitored through GPS tracking devices as they settle into their wild home, an important step toward contributing to a sustainable and thriving cheetah population in the Eastern Cape.
“This release is a powerful testament to the resilience of wildlife and the importance of rewilding and long-term conservation work,” said Taryn Gillson, Global Humane Society’s Regional Director for Africa.
“Nkanyiso’s story—from captivity to thriving mother in the wild—represents exactly what conservation efforts strive to achieve.”
Sources: Supplied
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