Mummified cheetahs found in Saudi Arabia caves could help reintroduction efforts
CNN • • world
Key Points:
- Scientists discovered seven naturally mummified cheetahs in caves near Arar, Saudi Arabia, dating from about 130 to 1,870 years ago, with well-preserved soft tissue and skeletons aiding DNA analysis.
- DNA analysis revealed that two of the oldest mummies were genetically closer to the Northwest African cheetah subspecies (Acinonyx jubatus hecki), challenging the belief that only the Asiatic cheetah subspecies inhabited the Arabian Peninsula.
- This discovery indicates that multiple cheetah subspecies once lived in northern Saudi Arabia, providing crucial information for reintroduction efforts by identifying ecologically appropriate lineages for restoration.
- The findings suggest that the Arabian Peninsula was an important natural bridge for cheetahs
