Cheetahs in Tanzania's Selous–Nyerere ecosystem: lack of evidence for current persistence, and reflections on historical status

• DOI: 10.1017/s0030605323001424
• Publication Date: 2023-12-15T08:13:59Z
• Authors: Charlotte E. Searle; Paolo Strampelli; Leonard Haule; Singira N. Parsais; Kandey Olesyapa; Nasri Dadi Salum; Dennis Ikanda; Samuel Mtoka; Germanus Hape; Daniel Mathayo; Manase Elisa; Alex L. Lobora; Amy J. Dickman
• Keywords: Acinonyx jubatus; Game reserve; Carnivore

Abstract The cheetah Acinonyx jubatus has suffered considerable range contractions in recent decades. Despite the importance of up-to-date information on distribution to guide conservation, such is lacking for large areas within species’ remaining potential range. In Tanzania, largest tract habitat without data Selous–Nyerere ecosystem. Although considered possibly extant this landscape, last confirmed sighting was late 1990s. During 2020–2022, we carried out sign-based (spoor) and camera-trap surveys across Selous Game Reserve Nyerere National Park. We did not record any evidence presence, opportunistic enquiries with tourism operators protected area management staff provide current or presence. Our findings suggest that presence unlikely, should be treated as contemporary discuss possibility may have never hosted a resident population, either occasionally occupied by dispersers from other populations represented edge spanned now corridors.