Cheetahs reintroduced to Zambia's Greater Luangwa Ecosystem

Six cheetahs (three males, three females) were translocated by Zambia's Department of National Parks and Wildlife and the Endangered Wildlife Trust from South African reserves to North Luangwa National Park in early July 2026, marking the species' return to the Greater Luangwa Ecosystem nearly 30 years after their last confirmed sighting in 1998. A second group of six will arrive in August, with a third batch planned for August 2027.

Cheetah reintroductions have a mixed record in Africa; success depends on sustained habitat management, community support, and long-term monitoring.