Mummified cheetahs in Saudi Arabia yield preserved DNA

Researchers extracted DNA from naturally mummified cheetahs found in caves near Arar, northern Saudi Arabia, with remains dated between about 100 and 4,000 years ago. Genetic analysis links older specimens to West African cheetah lineages and suggests the finds could inform future conservation planning.

Scientists recovered DNA from naturally mummified cheetahs found in a cave network near Arar in northern Saudi Arabia. The remains were uncovered in 2022 and 2023 and include seven desiccated individuals and the skeletal remains of 54 others. Radiocarbon dating places the material between about 100 and 4,000 years old. The new genetic results were published Jan. 15 in Communications Earth and Environment and represent the first extraction of DNA from naturally mummified big cats, according to the report. Key facts: - The discoveries came from the Lauga cave network in the Arar area and include cubs and adults. - Researchers dated two mummified cheetahs and five skeletons; the oldest skeleton is about 4,000 years old and the two desiccated cheetahs dated to about 130 and 1,870 years old. - Genetic analyses show older Saudi specimens are most closely related to West African A. j. hecki lineages, while the youngest specimen in the study had closer links to Asian A. j. venaticus. - Cheetahs are in global decline, with about 7,100 individuals remaining and the species now occupying roughly 9% of its historic range. - Saudi Arabia has launched a cheetah reintroduction program (2023) and reported the birth of four cheetah cubs and a National Cheetah Conservation Strategy that includes breeding facilities and plans for a wild breeding population. Summary: The findings provide direct genetic evidence that cheetahs historically lived in the Arabian peninsula and identify two distinct lineages among the recovered remains. The authors and outside researchers note the genetic data could inform conservation planning and suggest sourcing from the closest related subspecies for any rewilding efforts; the specific conservation steps and timelines remain undetermined at this time.