The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has successfully relocated a cheetah cub that had been raised as a family pet by a woman in Kursi Village, Garissa County, to the Nairobi Safari Walk for rehabilitation and proper wildlife management.
According to KWS, the woman rescued the orphaned cub about two years ago and has since been caring for it as part of her household providing food, shelter, and even taking it on leashed walks. While her actions were well-intentioned, officials emphasized that keeping wild animals as pets is prohibited under Kenyan law due to the potential risks to both humans and wildlife.
The intervention, conducted earlier this week, was part of KWS’s ongoing efforts to safeguard endangered species and ensure their proper rehabilitation. The adolescent cheetah is now under the care of wildlife experts at the Nairobi Safari Walk, where it will undergo medical assessment and behavioral evaluation before possible reintegration into a suitable conservation habitat.
KWS commended the woman for rescuing the cub but urged the public to report cases of orphaned or injured wild animals to the nearest KWS office instead of attempting to domesticate them. The agency noted that such interventions help guarantee the animals receive appropriate care while maintaining their natural instincts necessary for survival in the wild.
The relocation highlights the growing challenges of wildlife conservation amid shrinking natural habitats and underscores the importance of community awareness and collaboration in protecting Kenya’s endangered species.
