Mummified Cheetahs Found in Saudi Caves Offer New Historical Clues

Researchers excavated seven mummified cheetahs and the bones of 54 others from caves near Arar in northern Saudi Arabia, with remains dated between about 130 and 1,800 years old.

Researchers uncovered mummified cheetah remains in caves near Arar in northern Saudi Arabia. The remains span from roughly 130 years old to more than 1,800 years old. Excavators recovered seven mummies and bones from 54 other cheetahs at the site. The findings are reported in a study published in the journal Communications Earth and Environment. Key findings: - Seven mummified cheetahs and bones from 54 other individuals were excavated near the city of Arar. - Radiocarbon and contextual dating place the remains between about 130 and 1,800 years old. - Authors report the caves' dry conditions and stable temperature as possible factors in natural mummification. - Genetic analysis of the preserved material showed similarity to modern cheetahs from Asia and northwest Africa. - The article notes that cheetahs once ranged across parts of Asia and the Arabian Peninsula but have not been observed there for decades, a change linked in reports to habitat loss, hunting and declines in prey. Summary: The discovery provides rare, well-preserved physical evidence of cheetahs in this part of the Arabian Peninsula and allows genetic study of naturally mummified large cats. Researchers describe the preservation as unusual for large mammals and report genetic links to modern Asian and northwest African cheetahs. The study may inform understanding of past ranges and related scientific discussion. Undetermined at this time.