Seven Naturally Mummified Cheetahs Discovered in Northern Saudi Caves Researchers from the National Center for Wildlife uncovered seven naturally mummified cheetahs during 2022‑2023 wildlife surveys in five caves near Arar, Saudi Arabia, documenting both soft tissue and skeletal preservation [1]. The specimens were found in remote limestone formations that had remained undisturbed for centuries, allowing exceptional conservation of anatomical detail [1]. Field teams recorded precise GPS coordinates and cave conditions to support future comparative studies [1].

DNA Links Two Oldest Specimens to Northwest African Subspecies Genomic sequencing of three mummified individuals revealed that the two oldest samples share closest genetic affinity with Acinonyx jubatus hecki, the Northwest African cheetah, marking the first molecular confirmation of this subspecies on the Arabian Peninsula [1]. The analysis demonstrated distinct haplotypes, indicating that at least two separate cheetah lineages historically occupied the region [1]. Researchers emphasized that this genetic diversity challenges previous assumptions of a single homogeneous Arabian cheetah population [1].

Radiocarbon Dating Shows Use of Caves Spanning Millennia Radiocarbon results placed two of the mummified cheetahs between roughly 130 and 1,870 years before present, while additional skeletal fragments from the same sites date back up to 4,000 years [1]. These chronological layers suggest continuous or recurrent cheetah habitation and breeding in northern Saudi Arabia across multiple climatic periods [1]. The data provide a temporal framework for assessing human‑wildlife interactions and habitat changes over the last four millennia [1].

Findings Guide Subspecies‑Appropriate Reintroduction Strategies The study refines understanding of historic landscape use and clarifies extirpation timelines, enabling Saudi Arabia’s reintroduction program to select ecologically suitable cheetah subspecies based on ancient genetic evidence [1]. Lead author Ahmed Al Boug, wildlife specialist Adrian Tordiffe, and CCF director Laurie Marker highlighted reduced threats from habitat loss, extensive protected areas, and successful prey restoration as key factors supporting a viable cheetah recovery effort [1]. They argue that aligning reintroduced populations with historically native lineages will maximize ecological compatibility and long‑term survival prospects [1].