Mummified cheetahs found in Saudi caves offer clues about lost populations

Researchers excavated seven mummified cheetahs and the bones of 54 others in caves near Arar, Saudi Arabia; the remains date from about 130 to over 1,800 years old.

Scientists have uncovered mummified cheetah remains in caves near the city of Arar in northern Saudi Arabia. Excavators recovered seven mummies and the bones of 54 other cheetahs. The remains are reported to range in age from roughly 130 years to more than 1,800 years. The discovery has attracted attention because cheetahs have not been seen across much of the Arabian Peninsula for decades. Key findings: - Excavations at a site near Arar recovered seven naturally mummified cheetahs and skeletal remains from 54 additional cheetahs. - The preserved animals show cloudy eyes and shriveled limbs consistent with natural mummification in dry, stable environments. - Researchers report the caves' dry conditions and stable temperatures may have contributed to preservation. - Scientists say the concentration of remains could indicate a denning site where mothers raised young, though the reason for so many cheetahs in the caves is not known. - Genetic analysis of the mummified material is reported as most similar to modern cheetahs from Asia and northwest Africa. - The article notes cheetahs now occupy about 9% of their former range and have been absent from much of the Arabian Peninsula for decades, with causes reported to include habitat loss, unregulated hunting and reduced prey. Summary: The finds provide unusually well-preserved material for study, including genetic data that the authors report links the ancient animals to modern Asian and northwest African cheetahs. This genetic information is described as potentially relevant to future discussions about restoring cheetahs to areas where they no longer live. Undetermined at this time.