At the end of the 90s in Zimbabwe there were 1,200 cheetahs. Today there are only 170. That pair of figures is just a sample of what is happening around the globe. New research confirms the worst forecasts. The population of the fastest of mammals is on the verge of extinction.
The results of the research have been published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and records the existence of only 7,100 cheetahs around the world, according to 'Panthera', an organization specializing in feline conservation.
The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), also called chita is the fastest land animal, reaching a top speed between 95 and 115 km / h in races of up to 400-500 meters
And it is that the figure seems large, but its population is distributed in groups so small that it is seriously at risk of extinction. For example, in Iran, there is only a small group of 50 cheetahs left.
That amount may not be enough to ensure the balance of the population in this or other regions. Therefore, the authors of the research, members of the Zoological Society of London, have asked that these felines begin to belong to the group of species in direct danger of extinction, since at present it is only classified as vulnerable.
Protected habitats
The biggest problem with cheetahs is the need for a very large habitat to survive. Today, 77% of the territory in which these animals live is not within the limits of protected areas and impacts completely with populated areas or where there is too much human pressure.
Cheetahs in danger of extinction
This pressure is reflected in the disappearance of the species that are food for the cheetah, and in the capture of young specimens to introduce them into the illegal trade as exotic pets.
Changing the course of this situation is quite difficult, because it involves extending the boundaries of protected areas, and it is a decision that can not be made overnight. But what is very clear is that if the cheetah is extinguished it will be the direct responsibility of the man.
Photos: Internet.