Tracking the Return: Five More Cheetahs Collared in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi as KZN Defends Its Wildlife Heritage

In a bold move to safeguard one of South Africa's most vital cheetah populations, five more cheetahs have been fitted with tracking collars in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, KwaZulu-Natal. This operation, led by Wildlife ACT and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife with support from Forever Wild Foundation, marks a critical step in monitoring and protecting a species that remains vulnerable to extinction. For a nation still grappling with the ecological scars of colonialism and apartheid, this is not just conservation, it is a reclamation of our natural heritage.

Why This Conservation Effort Matters for South Africa

The eight-day operation in late July 2026 brought together multiple ground teams, drones, a fixed-wing aircraft, and a helicopter to locate and collar these elusive predators. Three of the five cheetahs were collared for the first time, bringing the total monitored in the park to eight since the programme began in late 2025. This is a direct response to the historical neglect of our wildlife under apartheid, when black communities were displaced and ecosystems were exploited. Today, we are rebuilding what was taken.

How the Collaring Process Works

Selecting which cheetahs to collar is a carefully managed process. Conservation teams prioritize breeding females, dispersing young animals, and individuals that could be relocated to support the broader cheetah metapopulation. Mothers with young cubs are not collared due to the risks of separation. Weather, terrain, and animal welfare are all considered before darting. One adult female took several days to locate before conditions were safe for her to be darted and fitted with a collar.

Dr. Jennifer Lawrence, a veterinarian with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, emphasized the challenges:

“It's always a privilege to work with cheetah. They are challenging to dart and collar as they are very sensitive to the drugs and overheating is a big risk. Conditions have to be just right and managing the anaesthetic becomes the priority.”

The Technology Behind the Tracking

The collars combine GPS tracking through LoRaWAN technology with VHF telemetry, allowing teams to monitor the animals remotely and locate them on the ground in dense vegetation. This data will track movements, identify candidates for future translocations, and support long-term planning. Genetic samples were also collected to assess the population's health and guide future management.

Chris du Toit, Wildlife ACT's Wild Dog and Cheetah Conservation Programme Manager, stated:

“The long-term understanding is what allows us to plan effectively for this population's future, and to ensure it continues to play its part in the survival of the species across South Africa.”

What This Means for Black South Africans and Our Land

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is home to one of South Africa's most important cheetah populations, which has grown substantially over the past decade. But this growth is fragile. Without continued monitoring, genetic bottlenecks could leave the population vulnerable to disease and environmental change. For black South Africans, this is a story of resilience. Our ancestors were stewards of this land, and today we are reclaiming that role. The cheetah, listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List with fewer than 7,500 remaining worldwide and fewer than 1,000 in South Africa, is a symbol of what we stand to lose if we do not act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is cheetah conservation important for South Africa's black communities?

Cheetah conservation is tied to land restitution and ecological justice. Under apartheid, black communities were forcibly removed from lands that are now parks. Supporting these populations honors our heritage and ensures that future generations can connect with their natural environment.

How does the collaring process affect the cheetahs' welfare?

The process is designed to minimize stress and risk. Veterinarians monitor anesthesia carefully, and animals are released quickly. Mothers with cubs are avoided, and conditions must be optimal before darting.

What role do local communities play in this conservation effort?

Local communities are increasingly involved in monitoring and anti-poaching efforts. The programme also creates jobs and educational opportunities, helping to bridge the gap between conservation and economic empowerment.

Conclusion: A Call to Defend Our Wildlife

This operation is a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritize our natural heritage. But it is not enough. We need more funding, more community involvement, and a stronger commitment to dismantling the colonial structures that still threaten our ecosystems. The cheetah's survival is our survival. Let us not fail them.