Kuno's cheetahs get monsoon care amid parasite threats

As monsoon showers swept into Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park (KNP) in mid-June 2025, the forest department undertook a remarkable feat in wildlife management—administering prophylactic Bravecto Spot-On treatment to 22 cheetahs to guard against tick infestations. The effort, aimed at averting the kind of parasite-related fatalities seen during the 2023 monsoon, marks a new benchmark in large carnivore care in India.

Of the 27 cheetahs currently residing at KNP—including 10 translocated from Africa and 12 born in India—16 roam freely in the wild. Administering Bravecto to these wild individuals posed a major challenge, as it requires chemical immobilization, a high-risk and delicate operation. Yet, within just eight days, Team Kuno managed to complete the entire prophylactic procedure without incident—an unprecedented accomplishment in global cheetah management.The standout success included the tranquilization and treatment of Gamini and her four cubs in a single coordinated operation near Morena, followed by a first-of-its-kind simultaneous immobilization of Aasha’s three male cubs using a custom-built movable boma. The team also successfully treated two nursing cheetah mothers, Veera and Nirva, despite concerns over the reactions of their very young cubs.

With over 100 successful immobilizations under its belt, the KNP team has evolved into a highly skilled and efficient unit. Their efforts are supported by veterinarians from Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary and local forest divisions, highlighting inter-agency coordination. Looking ahead, Kuno plans to publish a Capture and Immobilization Manual to help train wildlife staff across the country.Located close to the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve and the newly established Shivpuri Tiger Reserve, Kuno is fast becoming a model for managing large carnivores in shared landscapes. As India’s only cheetah reintroduction site navigates its third monsoon season, its proactive disease prevention and adaptive field strategies underscore a deepening commitment to long-term cheetah conservation.