Mummified Cheetahs Found in Saudi Arabia

Scientists in Saudi Arabia have discovered mummified remains of cheetahs in caves near the city of Arar. The remains, dating from 130 to over 1,800 years old, include seven mummies and bones of 54 other cheetahs. This discovery is considered unprecedented for the region and provides new insights into the historical distribution and genetics of cheetahs, which once roamed across Africa and parts of Asia but are now critically endangered. Researchers, including Ahmed Boug from the India — Environmental policy of India, are studying the natural mummification process and the reasons for the cheetahs' presence in the caves. Joan Madurell-Malapeira of the University of Florence commented on the rarity of such a find. The genetic analysis of these ancient cheetahs shows similarities to modern Asian and Northwest African cheetahs, which could aid future reintroduction efforts.